Grass jelly, a unique and versatile ingredient with a rich history in Asian cuisine, is steadily gaining recognition worldwide. From its traditional roots as a medicinal remedy to its modern applications in innovative beverages and desserts, grass jelly offers a compelling combination of flavour, texture, and potential health benefits. This article explores the fascinating journey of grass jelly, delving into its origins, culinary uses, and nutritional properties.
A Journey Through Time: The Origins of Grass Jelly
The story of grass jelly begins in ancient China, during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Far from being a mere culinary ingredient, grass jelly was initially valued for its therapeutic properties. Made from the leaves and stems of the Mesona chinensis plant, it was used to create a hydrating gel that provided relief from heatstroke, a common condition among those working outdoors. The traditional preparation involved boiling the plant and allowing the liquid to cool and solidify into a jelly-like consistency.
As grass jelly's popularity grew, convenient powdered and canned forms emerged, making it more accessible and readily available. From its origins in China, grass jelly spread throughout Asia, leaving its mark on the culinary traditions of Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and beyond.
Grass Jelly in Asian Cuisine: A Culinary Tapestry
Across Asia, grass jelly has become an integral part of various desserts and beverages, each region showcasing its unique culinary flair.
- China: In China, grass jelly is a beloved summertime treat, typically served chilled with ice cubes, honey, or fruit. Its subtle, slightly minty flavour complements sweet additions like brown sugar, syrup, honey, or condensed milk.
- Taiwan: Taiwanese cuisine elevates grass jelly desserts with the addition of red beans and chewy taro balls. This combination creates a delightful interplay of textures and flavours, showcasing the creativity inherent in traditional Asian cuisine.
The Versatility of Grass Jelly Powder: Beyond Traditional Desserts
Grass jelly powder's versatility extends far beyond traditional desserts. Its subtle herbal notes beautifully complement both classic milk tea and fruity concoctions, making it ideal for those seeking beverages with a touch less sweetness, striking a perfect balance between sweet and herbal or slightly bitter flavours. Grass jelly powder also offers a unique jelly-like texture, contrasting with the familiar tapioca pearls.
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Health benefits of grass jelly
As the initial use of grass jelly powder originated in medicine, it comes as no surprise that it boasts a wealth of potential health benefits. Consumers today are becoming increasingly mindful of their food choices, and grass jelly's nutritional profile emerges as a compelling factor. Its abundance of antioxidants strengthens the immune system, offering valuable support against bacterial threats. Furthermore, the high fibre content promotes a healthy digestive system and aids in weight management. Originally used for its cooling properties in alleviating heatstroke, grass jelly remains a popular summer dessert due to its refreshing nature.
According to one research review, the plant that black grass jelly is made from contains naturally occurring compounds that studies have shown to be beneficial in numerous ways. Research has demonstrated that it has the following properties, among others:
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antidiabetic
- Antitumor
- Can protect against high blood pressure
- Can protect the kidneys
- Can enhance the function of bacteria in the gut
- Can protect DNA from damage
While research has shown that the black grass jelly’s plant source shows promise, the review’s authors noted that there are many varieties of the plant with different levels of bioactive compounds. Until more research is done on the chemical makeup of various types, including safety investigations, it’s not possible to develop therapeutic recommendations.
Preliminary cell-based research looked at using the green grass jelly plant as a possible therapy for Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found that it showed promise in reducing the release of cholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine is a chemical that plays an important role in forming memories, concentration, and verbal and logical reasoning. People with Alzheimer’s disease don’t have enough acetylcholine, so finding ways to prevent the enzyme from further reducing its levels might help them form new memories and recall previous ones. Further research is needed - first in animals, then in humans - to determine if this is a safe and effective treatment.
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It’s important to note that while these studies are promising, the research on grass jelly is still pretty limited.
The aim of this study was to investigate (1) the hydrocolloid properties of grass jelly on reducing glycaemic response, (2) the impact of phenolic compounds in Mesona chinensis L. A total of 15 healthy Chinese men were recruited to this study. On each visit, subjects consumed one of the following three treatments, i.e. glucose solution (T1), grass jelly (Mesona chinensis L.) solution with glucose (T2) or grass jelly gel with glucose (T3). The incremental area under the curve for capillary glucose and venous plasma insulin for glucose group, grass jelly solution group and grass jelly gel was found to be statistically not significant (p>0.05). In a previous study the co-ingestion of grass jelly with complex carbohydrate was found to reduce glycaemic response. The key difference between the two studies was the use of monosaccharide glucose in the present study, compared to complex carbohydrates in the other. The co-ingestion of Mesona chinensis L. appears to reduce glycaemic response of only complex carbohydrates through the inhibition of carbohydrase. This conclusion was arrived at by the lack of any effect of Mesona chinensis L.
Green Grass Jelly: A Refreshing and Nutritious Choice
There’s one traditional ingredient often found in snacks or refreshing drinks, yet its benefits are often overlooked. Yes, it’s green grass jelly! From its chewy texture to the cool and refreshing sensation, green grass jelly isn’t just a thirst-quencher. Beneath its simple appearance lies a treasure trove of benefits for our body. If you’re looking for a natural way to maintain your health, it’s worth considering adding green grass jelly to your daily menu.
Green grass jelly is made from the leaves of the Cyclea barbata plant, processed into a natural gel. This gel solidifies into a jelly-like texture but is packed with nutrients. Green grass jelly is rich in fiber, which helps improve the digestive system. If you want to maintain stable blood sugar levels, green grass jelly can be a great option.
Even though green grass jelly offers many health benefits, it doesn’t mean you can consume it carelessly! Improper processing and serving can reduce its nutritional value.
Read also: The Health Benefits of Lemongrass
Modern Culinary Innovations: Grass Jelly's Expanding Horizons
Modern culinary innovations have taken grass jelly powder far beyond its traditional applications. In contemporary kitchens, it shines as a versatile ingredient, offering a subtle flavour and unique textural element to a variety of dishes. From experimental recipes to creative combinations, the adaptability of grass jelly powder exemplifies its relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of modern cuisine.