There are plenty of creative ways to make edible brains such as Evil Mad Scientists spooky things in jars and Living Lucurto's Brains in a Jar Cupcakes. But I needed something that was quick and easy for an activity for children and I discovered the beauties of AGAR-AGAR!
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| Image: Tabsinthe - flickr |
Agar is the best friend of biologists, derived from red algae it is used in Asian desserts and to grow bacteria cultures in the lab. Agar is a great vegetarian/vegan alternative to gelatin (which is made from pig and cow collagen).
You prepare agar much the same way you prepare gelatin, you warm it up, add colour and flavouring and let it cool in a mold. The texture of agar is much firmer than commerical jelly mixes, you can also alter the firmness by changing the concentration of agar powder.
Agar-agar powder is all the rage in molecular gastronomy for its great set of properties. It sets between 32-40°C meaning it can set without being put in a fridge. Once set it doesn't melt until about 85°C, retaining its shape a lot longer than gelatin does.
Agar doesn't have any flavour so won't affect the taste of your masterpiece, people use it to help set jams for this reason. Apparently it has no calories, I don't know how true that is but sounds awesome if it is real!
Read more about the specifics of agar here. and check out ebay or your other preferred online store for some wacky molds and get setting!
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