There are a number of effective and delicious ways to bring the nutrition and immune benefits of elderberries into our diets.* Tincture, tonic, syrup, tea, and culinary recipes abound. And, of course, there are gummies! I’m a big believer in putting fun into our lives when and where we can, and an elderberry gummy is a morsel of fun that also provides support for our immune systems. Most gummies, however, contain gelatin, which is a hard no for vegans and followers of some religious faiths. We set out to create an elderberry gummy that anyone can enjoy. How do you get a gelatin-type gummy without the gelatin? It all comes down to agar-agar powder.

What is Agar?

The name agar-agar is the Malay name for the red algae from which the gummy-making powder is produced. Often called simply agar, it is a combination of a polysaccharide called agarose and a mixture of molecules known as agaropectin. This combination forms the structure of cell walls in certain species of red algae. During processing to make food-grade agar-agar, the agaropectin is separated, leaving behind a product that is almost pure agarose. Once processed, agar agar is sold in strips, flakes, or powder form.

Both agar flakes and powder are used for culinary recipes. However, you can’t simply throw the agar into your ingredients and expect it to gel. Agar-agar must be activated by boiling, which works out perfectly for gummy-making!

Finally, gummies do best with pure agar-agar powder (as opposed to the flakes) with no additives. Some products sold as agar are only part agar, so be sure and read the label. If you only have access to the flakes, you will need about three times as much as the powder and it tends to clump more, so you may need to use an immersion blender to make a smooth gummy mixture. Similarly, if you can only find a product that is a blend of agar, the other additives can throw off your gummies; you can go ahead and give it a try, but you’ll need to calculate the actual amount of agar; for instance, if it’s 30% agar-agar, you’ll need three times as much.

How is a Vegan Gummy Different than a Gelatin Gummy?

Agar-agar does not create the same consistency gummy that you get from using gelatin. It makes a beautiful, shiny, delicious gummy that has a nice “squish” and works especially well in candy molds, but the “bite” is a little different. If you’ve ever had a Japanese fruit jelly, you’ll recognize the consistency. The more agar you use, the firmer it will be. I prefer to use as little as possible for the best mouthfeel.

Vegan Elderberry Gummies Recipe with Agar-Agar

Makes about 1 cup of gummy liquid.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened organic elderberry juice (see below)
• 1 tsp. pure 100% agar-agar powder
• 6 Tbsp. organic sugar, or to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the silicone molds you intend to use. Wash and wipe them dry. Set them on a plate or tray that will fit in your refrigerator and set aside on the counter.
2. Whisk the ingredients together in a small, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat to thoroughly and smoothly incorporate the agar-agar. 
3. Continue whisking as mixture comes to a boil, approximately 5 minutes. 
4. Boil 1-2 minutes while whisking. This activates the agar-agar. The mixture will be thin but you will see it starting to congeal on the sides of the pan.
5. Set aside to cool for 4-5 minutes before putting into molds.
6. Use a dropper or a spoon to fill molds. 
7. Put in the refrigerator and allow gummies to set up completely—about 30 minutes—before you press them out.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. I have also heard you can freeze these little morsels for 2-3 months, but they never make it to the freezer in our house.

Pro Tips

• Many candy molds are sold with a nice-sized dropper that makes it easy to squeeze the gummy liquid into the mold cavities.  You can also use a spoon.
• If you want a less firm gummy, cut the amount of agar-agar in half or a quarter. 
• You can use honey instead of sugar, but it does change the consistency.
  
  

How to Make Elderberry Juice

You can make this juice with just berries and water, but I like to add a little cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Makes about 2 cups juice.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried organic elderberries
• 4 cups water
• 1 organic cinnamon stick (optional)
• 6 organic whole cloves (optional)
• 1/2-1 inch fresh organic ginger root, roughly chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Combine elderberries, water, and desired spices in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer until mixture has reduced by about half.
3. Take off the heat, put on a lid, and set aside to cool enough to handle.
4. Strain into a sterile jar with an airtight lid.
5. Label with name and date. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze until ready to use.

Want another fun and delicious way to get more elderberries in your life?

Try this Elderberry Shrub + Mocktail Recipe for Immune Support!

You may also enjoy:

• Elderberry Syrup for Overnight Oats
• Fall Cocktails: Elder Bellini Recipe with a Mocktail Option
• Elderberry Mulled Cider Recipe for Immune Support

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only.