Go Back
margaret-ellis

Edible Water Beads

A fun and simple treat that resembles tiny jelly pearls, perfect for garnishing desserts or enjoying on their own.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Cooking
Cuisine: Cooking
Calories: 20
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
  • 1 cup water
  • A splash of food coloring optional
  • A sprinkle of sugar optional

Method
 

  1. Mix the agar-agar powder with the cup of water in a small pot, stirring to dissolve.
  2. Heat the pot over medium heat, stirring often, until it boils.
  3. Add food coloring and sugar if desired, stirring until dissolved.
  4. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Fill a bowl with cold water and drop small amounts of the mixture into it using a dropper or spoon.
  6. Let the beads sit in the cold water for about 5 minutes to set.
  7. Gently strain the beads with a slotted spoon or fine sieve and rinse them in cool water.

Notes

Use a clean dropper for consistent bead size and work over a bowl to catch stray beads. Adjust sugar to taste or omit for a neutral flavor.