What is Kanten?
Kanten(寒天) is a natural gelling agent made from red algae, particularly species such as tengusa and ogonori. It has been widely used in traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) and cooking for centuries.
Some of the most well-known traditional sweets made with kanten include yokan and mitsumame.
Yokan is a firm, jelly-like sweet made by mixing sweet bean paste—typically azuki bean paste—with sugar and kanten, then heating and stirring the mixture until it thickens.(See photo above)
Mitsumame is a refreshing dessert made with small cubes of kanten jelly, red peas, assorted fruits, and a drizzle of sweet syrup .(See photo below)
Another delightful sweet made from kanten is kohakuto, sometimes called "edible jewels" because of its crystal-like appearance. Here is our original recipe for tea-flavored kohakuto.
Tea Flavored Kohakuto (琥珀糖, Japanese Traditional Candy) Recipe
Kanten isn't limited to traditional Japanese confections- it can be used for jellies and sweets.
Try our Hojichai Jelly.
Comparing Kanten, Gelatin, and Agar
Gelatin is an animal-based gelling agent made from collagen extracted from the skin and bones of cows and pigs, as well as from fish scales and skin. Kanten, on the other hand, is plant-based, derived from seaweed. Gelatin creates a soft jiggly texture that "wobbles" when moved. Kanten creates a crisp texture that breaks cleanly.
Agar, also called agar-agar, is another plant-based gelling agent similar to kanten, made from different types of red algae and often combined with locust bean gum. Agar has a texture more like gelatin, offering a smooth but firmer consistency.
The Appeal of Kanten
Unlike gelatin’s soft wobble, kanten sets into a firm texture with a crisp bite, giving desserts a refreshing mouthfeel, especially in warm weather.
Among the three, kanten has the strongest gelling power, meaning a small amount can create a solid gel. Once set, it does not melt, even in hot temperatures, making it perfect for warm-weather desserts.
Kanten is 100% plant-based, making it an excellent alternative to gelatin for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
It’s also low in calories and high in dietary fiber. It's a popular ingredient in light desserts and health-conscious recipes. Additionally, kanten is increasingly used in diet foods, cleansing programs, and nourishing meals for elderly care.
Incorporating kanten, a traditional Japanese ingredient, into your everyday meals and snacks can be a wonderful idea.
Introducing Our New Kanten Kit
Dewdrop (Japanese Kanten Jelly Kit)
Recipes with Kanten
Today's Recommendation
Kanten Powder (Agar), Kyo no Kanbutsuya 京の乾物屋 粉寒天
There are several types of kanten (stick, string, powder), but powdered kanten is becoming the standard for home use due to its ease of use and powerful gelling ability.
