17 Russian Zefir Recipe Vegan Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Russian zefir is a beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries in Eastern Europe. This light and fluffy treat is typically made with gelatin, which can be a barrier for those following a vegan diet. However, with a few simple swaps, you can recreate this delicious dessert in a vegan-friendly way. Let's dive into a Russian zefir recipe that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while adhering to your dietary preferences.
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The Key Ingredient: Aquafaba
One of the main components of traditional zefir is gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen. As a vegan alternative, we will be using aquafaba, the liquid found in canned chickpeas. This ingredient is a game-changer for vegan baking as it has a similar protein structure to egg whites and can be whipped into a fluffy foam. Plus, it's a great way to reduce food waste by using a product that is usually discarded. This substitution allows us to create a vegan zefir that is light, airy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Other Ingredient Swaps
Apart from the aquafaba, the rest of the ingredients in this vegan zefir recipe are similar to the traditional version. Instead of sugar, we will be using coconut sugar, which adds a subtle caramel flavor to the zefir. For the flavoring, we will be using vanilla extract, but you can also experiment with different extracts such as almond or lemon to add your own twist to the recipe. And finally, instead of gelatin, we will be using agar agar, a plant-based alternative that sets similarly to gelatin.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients, let's dive into the recipe. First, drain a can of chickpeas and reserve the liquid. This will be our aquafaba. In a saucepan, mix together the aquafaba, coconut sugar, and agar agar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. In the meantime, prepare a baking dish lined with parchment paper and dusted with cornstarch.
Next, using an electric mixer, whip the aquafaba mixture until it forms stiff peaks. This may take around 10 minutes, so be patient. Once the mixture is fluffy and holds its shape, add in the vanilla extract and continue to mix for another minute. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it set in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Serve and Enjoy!
After the zefir has set, remove it from the fridge and cut it into squares. Dust with cornstarch and serve as is, or top it with fresh fruit or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. With this vegan zefir recipe, you can enjoy a classic Russian dessert that is free of animal products, but still just as delicious. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and impress your friends and family with your vegan baking skills!