What is "agar"?

Agar, a versatile substance derived from seaweed, is known for its unique characteristics. It lacks flavor, making it a neutral ingredient that doesn't alter the taste of the dish. Agar has a firm and gelatinous texture when set, which makes it ideal for various culinary applications. To prepare agar, it is typically dissolved in hot liquid, such as water or broth, and then allowed to cool and solidify, forming a jelly-like substance. Its ability to set at room temperature is a notable advantage over gelatin. Due to its plant-based origin and compatibility with vegetarian and vegan diets, agar has become a popular alternative to animal-based gelling agents.