Thickener, Gelling Agent | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Keto Low Calorie

Agar Powder

N/A (Derived from Rhodophyta) Allergen-Free
Agar Powder

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rhodophyta
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Red Algae (Gelidium and Gracilaria species)

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A gelatinous substance derived from red algae, primarily used as a vegetarian gelling agent in desserts and savory dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteNeutral
TextureFirm, Brittle gel, Powdery
AromaOdorless
AcidityNeutral

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g (1 tsp)
Calories26 kcal
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.4g
Total Carbohydrate7.6g
Dietary Fiber6.8g
Total Sugars0.5g
Calcium54mg
Iron0.7mg
Potassium226mg

Chef’s Secret

Agar requires boiling for full activation and to dissolve completely; it sets at room temperature and is heat-stable once set, unlike gelatin.

Substitutions

Best Match

Gelatin (animal-derived)

1:8 (agar:gelatin)

Most common gelling agent, but animal-derived.

Pectin

Variable (depends on type/application)

Fruit-derived gelling agent, ideal for jams and jellies, requires sugar and acid.

Carrageenan

1:1 (for some applications)

Seaweed extract, provides different textures (kappa for firm, iota for elastic).

Xanthan Gum

1:0.1 (agar:xanthan for thickening)

Thickener, not a gelling agent, but can add body and stabilize emulsions.

Buying Guide

Available as flakes or powder. Powder is more potent and dissolves faster; ensure it's boiled for full activation.

Flavor Pairings

Fruit desserts jellies puddings aspics vegan cheese clear broths.