Kanten

This gelatin is processed from sea vegetation, specifically a plant called tengusa (“heavenly grass”). The jelling property of this plant, particularly after it has been freeze-dried, is quite remarkable (it will solidify liquid without refrigeration) and has been known and used in the Orient for many centuries.

Kanten is usually sold as two sticks of what appear to be brittle cellophane wrapped in what really is thin cellophane. One stick can usually jell about 1¾ cups liquid. Agar-agar also comes in flakes; 1 tablespoon jells 1 cup of liquid. More recently, powdered kanten has come on the market; one packet of powder jells about 1⅔ cups liquid. A great deal depends upon the chemistry of the specific liquid used.