Apple and Ginger Jelly

Straight lines are a trademark of humanity – it seems no other animal goes out of its way to create so many straight lines in its surroundings.

In a way, it could be why we sometimes want to leave the cubicle in search for the wild side of life; perhaps straight lines make us feel safe in our humanity but also keeps the wild, messy, world outside? We see it everywhere and I must admit that seeing perfectly cut little cubes of delicious edible delights on my plate sends a tingle up my spine – it’s not the shape (I’m not a “that” weird), so much as it is the accuracy of cut. Someone has spent time and concentration making sure that even the tiniest bit of food placed in front of me is thought out and deliberate.

I suck at it.

The recipe is simple enough for apple and ginger jelly:

  • the blood of 4 apples (you can also use its juice if you really have to)
  • a large knuckle of ginger, juiced as well
  • half a teaspoon of Agar agar
  • chocolate – I used 70% Lindt cooking chocolate
  • candied ginger for garnish. You can make this by placing slivers of ginger in to a syrup of half water/sugar solution.

 

Heat the juices, add the agar, cook till all is dissolved, strain, place in a mold to set, cut into cubes, dip into the melted chocolate, and place the candied ginger atop the treat for good luck, because when trying to cut perfect little squares you will need all the luck the world can offer!

I call this masterpiece: "The long shadows of 4pm". Note how all the cubes are different sizes? That is exactly how you shouldn't do it.
I call this masterpiece: “The long shadows of 4pm”. Note how all the cubes are different sizes? That is exactly how you shouldn’t do it.
Ah, this is yet another way of how you shouldn't add chocolate to the equation.
Ah, this is yet another way of how you shouldn’t add chocolate to the equation.
And finally, after dipping and candying, this is the final product. It tastes quite good, and the candied ginger gives a nice sweet chewy texture to add to the mix. This was taken with my wife's camera. There is envy in my heart.
And finally, after dipping and candying, this is the final product. It tastes quite good, and the candied ginger gives a nice sweet chewy texture to add to the mix. This was taken with my wife’s camera. There is envy in my heart.