Chewy and Silky Homemade Acorn Jelly (Dotorimuk)
The Golden Ratio Recipe for Making Dotorimuk (Acorn Jelly)
Acorns have been a part of the human diet for a very long time, believed to have been consumed since the Neolithic era. Acorn contains ‘acornic acid,’ which is excellent for relieving fatigue and hangovers, and it helps the body excrete harmful substances like heavy metals. The ‘tannin’ component in acorns removes active oxygen, prevents various bacteria and viruses, protects the stomach, and can stop severe diarrhea. Today, we’ll learn how to make firm and chewy homemade acorn jelly. This recipe is by Kim Dae-seok.
Ingredients
- 1 cup acorn powder
- 6 cups purified water
- 1/3 Tbsp salt (approx. 2g)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil (approx. 15ml)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the ingredients for making acorn jelly. Measure 1 cup (using a standard paper cup) of acorn powder. You’ll also need 6 cups (using the same paper cup) of purified water. The golden ratio for acorn powder to water is 1:6, so keep this ratio in mind.
Step 2
In a wide pot, add the 1 cup of acorn powder. Pour in the 6 cups of purified water. Importantly, do not turn on the heat yet. Use a whisk or spatula to thoroughly mix the acorn powder and water until there are no lumps. Let this mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow the acorn powder to fully hydrate. This soaking step is crucial for achieving a firm and chewy texture in the jelly.
Step 3
After letting it soak for 30 minutes, stir the acorn powder mixture again. The soaking process helps the acorn powder meld with the water, creating a smoother consistency.
Step 4
Now, turn on the heat to medium-high. Stir continuously as it heats up. Stirring is essential to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot or forming lumps. Once the mixture begins to thicken, reduce the heat to low.
Step 5
Continue stirring the mixture over low heat for about 30 minutes. Set a timer for 30 minutes. When there are about 13 minutes left on the timer, add 1/3 tablespoon of salt (approximately 2g). Salt enhances the flavor of the acorn jelly.
Step 6
After adding the salt, stir vigorously to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, preventing any clumping.
Step 7
In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 tablespoon of perilla oil (approximately 15ml). Perilla oil adds a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor to the acorn jelly, making it even more delicious. If you don’t have perilla oil, sesame oil can be used as a substitute.
Step 8
After stirring in the perilla oil for another 5 minutes, turn off the heat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
Step 9
Your delicious acorn jelly is now complete! Doesn’t it look wonderfully glossy and inviting?
Step 10
Carefully transfer the finished acorn jelly into a glass airtight container. Let it cool in a cool place for at least 1 hour, or preferably longer, until it is firm and set. Sufficient cooling time is key to achieving the perfect jelly texture.
Step 11
Your homemade acorn jelly is perfectly set! Now, slice it into your desired portions and serve with your favorite soy-based dipping sauce. Enjoy this healthy and delicious acorn jelly for a special meal!
