Description
This vegan gummy bears recipe uses fresh strawberries and agar-agar powder as a plant-based alternative to gelatin, combined with kombucha and organic cane sugar to create a naturally flavored, chewy treat. Perfect for those seeking a gelatin-free, vegan-friendly gummy snack, these gummy bears are easy to make with simple ingredients and set in silicone molds within an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Liquids
- 2.75 cups fresh strawberries
- 1 cup kombucha (or fruit juice as substitute)
Sweeteners and Gelling Agents
- 3 tablespoons organic cane sugar
- 3.5 teaspoons agar-agar powder
- 2 tablespoons water (for agar paste)
Instructions
- Prepare molds: Make sure the silicone molds are completely clean and dry. Place the molds on a tray or chopping board that fits in your fridge to keep them stable.
- Puree strawberries: Wash the strawberries and remove their tops. Blend the strawberries in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. Pass the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan to ensure a smooth texture.
- Cook the puree with sugar: Add the organic cane sugar to the strawberry puree and place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let the mixture bubble and reduce for 8-10 minutes while whisking continuously to prevent burning.
- Add kombucha: Stir in the kombucha and whisk well to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Make agar paste: In a small bowl, combine agar-agar powder with 2 tablespoons of water to form a thick paste.
- Incorporate agar and cook: Add the agar paste to the saucepan, increase heat to high to bring the mixture to a bubble. Then reduce the heat to medium and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously to fully dissolve the agar.
- Cool slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for a couple of minutes, ensuring it doesn’t set prematurely.
- Fill molds: Use a dropper to carefully fill each silicone mold cavity with the gummy mixture. This allows precise filling and minimizes mess.
- Set gummies: Transfer the filled molds to the fridge. Let the gummies set and firm up for about 30 minutes.
- Store gummies: Once set, remove the gummy bears from the molds and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute kombucha with fruit juice if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to taste or dietary requirements.
- Ensure continuous whisking during cooking to prevent the puree from sticking or burning on the pan’s bottom.
- Use silicone molds for easy removal of gummies once set.
- Consume within 4 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
