Orange Fluid Gel
Bright, citrusy, and a little bit fancy. This orange fluid gel is smooth, vibrant, and packed with fresh orange flavour. Once blended, it turns into a silky gel that’s perfect for squeezing, dotting, or swooshing onto plates. Use it to dress up desserts, cocktails, or even savoury dishes that need a pop of citrus.
Equipment
- Blender or Food processor
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp Agar agar or 2 tsp gelatin (see notes for Agar Vs. Gelatin)
Instructions
- Juice enough oranges to make 2 cups of orange juice. Divide into two 1-cup portions.
- Pour 1 cup of the juice into a small saucepan. Reserve the other cup for later.
- Add the sugar and agar (or gelatin) to the saucepan and whisk well.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking occasionally.
- In a bowl, mix the remaining cup of orange juice with the lemon juice.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the orange-lemon mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow container and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until fully set.
- Once firm, transfer the gel to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth and glossy.
- Use as needed or transfer to a squeeze bottle or airtight container for storage and plating.
Notes
Juice choice: Fresh orange juice gives the brightest flavour, but store-bought juice works too. If using store-bought juice, you may want to skip the added sugar.
Try other flavours: This technique works well with other juices like cranberry, apple, grape, or grapefruit.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Agar vs. Gelatin
- Gelatin
- Made from animal collagen
- Creates a softer, delicate gel
- Not vegetarian
- Agar
- Plant-based (seaweed derived)
- Creates a firmer gel
- Vegetarian and vegan friendly
- Must be boiled to activate
Tried this recipe?
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Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife