Experiments are a basis of human life. Although different inputs give different results, people get to know and understand what works best in certain conditions. For instance, in making recipes, substituting ingredients always come in handy, but may not always give similar results. A case in point is substituting gelatin sheets and gelatin powder in various recipes such as making jelly. Although both are derived from collagen, they have differences.

What is Gelatin sheets?

This is gelatin that is dried in a flat sheet, forming a transparent and clear product. Many types of gelatin sheets are available, depending on the gelling strengths. To use, gelatin sheets are first hydrated by submerging them in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes. They, however, dissolve quickly when heated over a double boiler or stirred into warm liquids. In culinary, one tablespoon of powdered gelatin makes 4 sheets of gelatin.

What is Gelatin powder?

This is gelatin that is dried and is available in powder form. Before use, gelatin powder is rehydrated by the use of a cold liquid such as juice or water for 5-10 minutes, which allows it to absorb the liquid. It is then melted and used for the intended recipe. The main advantage of this is the ease of dispensing throughout a dish.

Similarities between Gelatin Sheets and Gelatin Powder

• Both are derived from collagen in the bones, skin and connective tissues of animals
• Both are a source of essential amino acids

Difference between Gelatin Sheets and Gelatin Powder

Definition

Gelatin sheets refer to gelatin that is dried in a flat sheet. On the other hand, gelatin powder is gelatin that is dried and is available in powder form.

Appearance

Gelatin sheets are transparent and clear products. On the other hand, gelatin powder is in particles form.

Method of preparation

Before use, gelatin sheets are first hydrated by submerging them in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes. They, however, dissolve quickly when heated over a double boiler or stirred into warm liquids. On the other hand, gelatin powder is rehydrated by the use of a cold liquid such as juice or water for 5-10 minutes, which allows it to absorb the liquid. It is then melted and used for the intended recipe.

Aftertaste

While gelatin sheets do not produce an aftertaste in the final product, gelatin powder may have an aftertaste in the final product.

Gelatin Sheets vs. Gelatin Powder: Comparison Table

Summary of Gelatin Sheets vs. Gelatin Powder

While gelatin sheets and gelatin powder are both derived from collagen, they differ in terms of appearance and even the method of preparation. Gelatin sheets should be hydrated by submerging them in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes or dissolving by heated over a double boiler or stirring into warm liquids. Gelatin powder, on the other hand, should be rehydrated by the use of a cold liquid such as juice or water for 5-10 minutes, which allows it to absorb the liquid. It is then melted and used for the intended. Although they can be substituted, some recipes require the use of a specific type of gelatin. 

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