Bitter Melon Jelly

A vibrant and refreshing jelly made with bitter melon, apple, citrus juice and honey – naturally sweetened and packed with flavour. A unique, cooling dessert that celebrates clean-label ingredients and creativity in the kitchen.

Recipe from GMAP Japanese Member, Jellice.

Ingredients (serves 6-8):

• Gelatin powder – 2 sachets (10g)
• Boiling water – 100 ml
• Bitter melon (about 80–100g, seeds and white pith removed) – ½
• Apple – ½ (about 100g, cored, unpeeled)
• Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
• Orange juice – 250–280 ml
• Honey – 4 tablespoons
• Gum syrup and extra lemon juice – optional for serving

Preparation

1. Cut the bitter melon in half lengthwise, remove seeds and white pith, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Core the apple (no need to peel) and cut it into chunks.
2. In a blender, combine the chopped bitter melon, apple, lemon juice (2 tbsp), 100 ml of the orange juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the remaining orange juice to the mixture to make about 600 ml in total.
4. Dissolve 2 sachets of gelatin powder in 100 ml of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
5. Stir the gelatin mixture into the juice blend and mix thoroughly.
6. Place the bowl in an ice water bath and stir until slightly thickened.
7. Pour into cups or molds and refrigerate until set.
8. Optional: Serve with a drizzle of gum syrup and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.