As the vibrant colors of the Chinese New Year celebrations begin to fill the streets, I felt inspired to create something that embodies the spirit of abundance and joy. Enter the captivating Koi Fish Jelly—an impressive dessert that doesn’t just delight the taste buds but also becomes an artful centerpiece for any festive table. The smooth, wobbly texture, paired with enchanting hues of red, yellow, and orange, brings a playful elegance that’s irresistible.
What I love most about this simple treat is how quickly it can come together. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a dessert that looks as if it took hours to craft. Whether you choose the classic milk flavor or venture into the fragrant realms of pandan or osmanthus, this jelly is perfect for sharing with loved ones. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to impress friends and family alike, bringing a touch of traditional flair to your New Year festivities!
Why is Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly special?
Visual Delight: Crafted with vibrant colors, this jelly captures the essence of festivity, embodying the spirit of the Chinese New Year.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this stunning dessert in no time.
Versatile Flavors: Choose between classic milk or explore fragrant alternatives like pandan and osmanthus, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Conversation Starter: It’s not just dessert; it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that will spark joy and admiration at your table.
Cultural Significance: Enjoying koi fish jelly symbolizes prosperity and abundance, making it a fitting treat for celebrations.
Discover more delightful ideas with our Chinese New Year recipes that complement this enchanting dessert!
Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly Ingredients
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For the Jelly Mixture
Pre-sweetened Agar Agar Powder – Provides structure to the jelly; can be substituted with konjac powder for a vegan option.
Evaporated Milk (11.7 oz / 333g) – Adds a creamy texture; substitute with any plant-based milk for a lighter taste.
Water (23.5 oz / 667g) – Essential for creating the jelly base. -
For the Color and Decoration
Food Coloring (Yellow, Orange, Red) – Adds vibrant hues to mimic a koi fish.
Dried Raisins/Blackcurrants/Sultanas (2 per fish) – Represent the fish’s eyes, enhancing its charm.
Edible Gold Paint/Glitter – Optional but gives a touch of elegance and festivity to your Chinese New Year koi fish jelly.
How to Make Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly
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Prepare Mixture: In a pot, combine the evaporated milk and water. Whisk in the pre-sweetened agar agar powder at room temperature until fully incorporated.
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Heat: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until the agar agar is completely dissolved. Keep it warm and ready for the next steps.
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Attach Eyes: Use tweezers or chopsticks to insert two dried raisins or blackcurrants into the jelly mold, designating these as the eyes of your koi fish.
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Colorize: Divide the jelly mixture into separate bowls. Add food coloring to each bowl, mixing well. Then, carefully paint the inside of the mold with layers of color, allowing each layer to set slightly before adding the next.
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Stabilize Mold: To keep the mold steady while you pour the jelly, arrange it over four bowls or balance it within a bed of dried beans or rice.
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Fill Mold: Slowly and carefully pour the warm jelly mixture into the prepared mold, ensuring it fills nicely without overflows or spills.
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Set: Let the filled mold sit unrefrigerated at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then transfer it to the fridge for 2-3 hours, until completely set.
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Unmold: Gently remove the jelly from the mold. If needed, run a knife around the edges to ease it out. Optionally, brush the jelly with edible gold dust before serving for an elegant touch.
Optional: Serve chilled, adorned with edible flowers or fruit for an extra touch of beauty.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly
Room Temperature: Let the jelly sit for about an hour at room temperature before refrigerating; however, avoid keeping it out for prolonged periods to maintain texture.
Fridge: Store the jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving its delightful colors and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the jelly for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy the jelly again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, avoiding any heat source to preserve its texture and beauty.
What to Serve with Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly?
Indulge in a charming feast that celebrates flavor and festivity while pairing beautifully with your delightful dessert.
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Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the jelly’s texture, providing a sweet and tangy contrast that’s delightful after a heavier meal.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The subtle sweetness and chewy texture create a delightful harmony with the smoothness of the koi fish jelly, enhancing the meal’s richness.
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Green Tea: Served hot or cold, the delicate flavors of green tea refresh the palate, balancing the sweetness of the jelly and enhancing the overall experience.
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Sweet Red Bean Soup: This warm dessert adds a comforting finish and pairs beautifully with the koi fish jelly, offering a wonderful contrast in taste and temperature.
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Savory Spring Rolls: Crunchy, filled with vegetables and dipped in a light sauce, these savory morsels provide a satisfying contrast to the jelly’s sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
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Mango Pudding: This silky dessert echoes the koi fish jelly’s vibrant colors while offering a creamy mouthfeel, perfect for those who love tropical flavors.
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Sesame Balls: These crispy treats filled with sweet red bean paste add an inviting crunch that balances the smoothness of the jelly, making for an engaging texture combination.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: A fragrant, floral beverage that refreshes the spirit, this tea is a calming counterpart to the vibrant and playful koi fish jelly.
Whether you decide to embrace freshness or favor comforting desserts, these delightful pairings will elevate your dining experience, making every bite of your Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly even more memorable!
Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful dessert with exciting twists that will surprise your guests!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version that maintains a creamy texture.
A subtle nutty flavor will bring new dimension to this treat. -
Flavor Boost: Infuse your jelly with pandan leaves or osmanthus petals for an aromatic touch.
These flavors will elevate your jelly to new heights, making each bite uniquely fragrant. -
Colorful Layers: Create a multi-layered jelly using different colors and flavors for a captivating effect.
Each layer can tell a story, enticing your guests with every slice served. -
Fruity Twist: Stir in small pieces of fresh fruit like mango or kiwi before setting the jelly.
The bursts of flavor and juicy textures will surprise and delight anyone taking a bite! -
Chili Kick: Add a hint of chili or chili oil for those who enjoy a little heat in their desserts.
This unexpected twist will surely spark lively conversations at your table. -
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate roasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
The combination of smooth jelly and crunchy bits creates an interesting mouthfeel. -
Gift-Ready: Pour the jelly into individual serving jars for a charming and portable dessert option.
Perfect for sharing, these little jars will wow the recipients with their beauty and taste. -
Edible Flowers: Enhance your jelly with colorful edible flowers scattered on top for a stunning presentation.
These lovely additions will not only beautify your dish but also make it feel extra special.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the jelly mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first few steps of the recipe; simply whisk together the evaporated milk, water, and agar agar, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the best presentation, I recommend waiting to add the vibrant colors and mold the fish until the day you plan to serve it. Just remember to allow an hour at room temperature for the jelly to set properly before refrigerating it for another 2-3 hours until firm. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy the deliciousness of this stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly
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Perfect Texture: Ensure the agar agar is completely dissolved before pouring; any lumps can affect the jelly’s smoothness.
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Color Clarity: Use high-quality food coloring for vibrant hues; consider testing colors on a piece of parchment before applying to the mold.
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Mold Stability: For even pouring, balance the mold on a stable surface or inside a container of dried beans or rice during filling.
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Eye Placement: Stick raisins firmly into the mold before pouring the jelly; this keeps them in place and enhances the design.
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Gentle Removal: If the jelly sticks, run a knife around the edges to ease it out without damaging the structure; patience is key!
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors like pandan or osmanthus for a unique twist on your Chinese New Year koi fish jelly.
Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly, choose evaporated milk that is fresh and free from any curdling or discoloration. Look for agar agar powder that is bright and well-sealed in packaging to ensure potency. While the jelly itself is colorful, it’s essential the base ingredients are of good quality to produce a flawless final product.
How should I store leftover koi fish jelly?
Very important! To keep your jelly fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you haven’t eaten it all within that time, you can re-enjoy it by gently thawing in the fridge. Just remember that keeping it airtight preserves its beautiful colors and smooth texture!
Can I freeze koi fish jelly, and how?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly for up to 1 month. First, allow the jelly to fully set, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped jelly in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. Avoid reheating, as this can compromise the delicate texture!
What if the jelly doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your jelly doesn’t set as expected, double-check the agar agar powder; it may not have been fully dissolved or the ratio of agar to liquid may need adjusting. Make sure you bring the mixture to a full boil for at least 1-2 minutes to activate the agar. You can also remelt the jelly by adding a little more agar and reheating gently, then trying to set it again in the mold.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by using agar agar or konjac powder instead of gelatin, which is derived from animal products. Additionally, if you’re mindful of allergies, ensure that the food coloring is free from allergens. Always check labels on ingredients to accommodate your guests’ dietary needs.
Delightful Chinese New Year Koi Fish Jelly: Simple and Fun!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pot, combine the evaporated milk and water. Whisk in the pre-sweetened agar agar powder at room temperature until fully incorporated.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until the agar agar is completely dissolved.
- Use tweezers or chopsticks to insert two dried raisins or blackcurrants into the jelly mold, designating these as the eyes of your koi fish.
- Divide the jelly mixture into separate bowls. Add food coloring to each bowl, mixing well. Carefully paint the inside of the mold with layers of color.
- Arrange the mold over four bowls or balance it within dried beans or rice.
- Slowly pour the warm jelly mixture into the prepared mold.
- Let the filled mold sit at room temperature for about 1 hour, then transfer it to the fridge for 2-3 hours until completely set.
- Gently remove the jelly from the mold. If needed, run a knife around the edges to ease it out.