Pear Kanten with Pecan Crunch

Name: Pear Kanten with Pecan Crunch
Yield: serves 4
Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; 3 cups unsweetened pear juice; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

December 14, 2011

A kanten dessert is the Japanese equivalent of Jell-O, and its consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less liquid. This version is soft in texture, and the mellow flavor of pears is set off by the rich, spiced crunch topping. It’s important to blend the kanten after it cools in order to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. If you can’t find agar-agar (see page 102) in powder form, simply grind the flakes in a coffee grinder for 1 minute.

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