Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly
A Sweet Treat from the Heart of Nanjing
Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly, known as "桂花糕" in Chinese, is a popular traditional dessert hailing from Nanjing, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene. The recipe dates back to ancient times, when osmanthus flowers were first used in imperial palaces for their alluring fragrance and delicate flavor. With its captivating scent and delightful sweetness, this dessert has become a cherished staple throughout China, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Ingredients for Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly
- Osmanthus flowers - 20g
- Rock sugar - 100g
- Agar agar powder - 10g
- Water - 500ml
- Goji berries - optional, for garnish
Preparing the Osmanthus Jelly
Infusing the Osmanthus flowers
Start by rinsing the osmanthus flowers gently under cold water to remove any impurities. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water, allowing the flowers to steep for about 10 minutes. This process will extract the essential oils and fragrance of the flowers, which are essential for the jelly's flavor.
Preparing the Agar agar Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the water and agar agar powder. Stir well to dissolve the agar agar, ensuring no lumps remain. Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes, then bring it to a slow boil over medium heat. Stir continuously until the agar agar is completely dissolved. This ensures a smooth and set jelly texture.
Sweetening the Mixture
Add the steeped osmanthus flowers, along with their soaking liquid, into the saucepan. Then, add the rock sugar and stir gently until it's fully dissolved. The sugar not only sweetens but also helps to amplify the floral notes of the osmanthus.
Setting the Jelly
Once the mixture is ready, pour it into a mold or a shallow dish through a fine sieve to remove the osmanthus flowers. This process ensures a clear and smooth jelly. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for around 10 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2-3 hours or until fully set.
Presenting the Dessert
After the jelly has set, slice it into small bite-sized pieces. For a traditional touch, garnish with a few soaked goji berries on top to add a pop of color and an additional burst of nutrition.
Enjoying Your Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly
Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly is best enjoyed chilled, making it a refreshing treat on a warm day. Its delicate flavors pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea, such as jasmine or green tea, which complements the floral notes. This sweet dessert not only captures the essence of traditional Chinese confectionery but also creates a sensory experience that evokes the beauty and serenity of the season in which osmanthus blossoms.
For those who wish to indulge further, consider pairing the jelly with other traditional Chinese desserts to create a dessert platter that showcases a variety of textures and flavors.
Whether prepared for a special occasion or simply enjoyed as a delightful treat, Nanjing Osmanthus Jelly embodies elegance and tradition with every bite.