Is There a Vegan Substitute for Gelatin? The Best Plant-Based Alternatives

Gelatin is a staple in many desserts, candies, and even some savory dishes. But if you’re vegan or simply looking for a plant-based thickener, you might wonder: Is there a vegan substitute for gelatin? The answer is a resounding yes!

Fortunately, there are several vegan-friendly alternatives that offer similar gelling and thickening properties. From agar-agar to pectin and carrageenan, these substitutes can help you create jellies, gummies, puddings, and more—without using animal-derived ingredients.

In this article, we’ll explore what gelatin is, why it’s not vegan, and the best plant-based alternatives you can use. We’ll also break down how to use these substitutes in different recipes, including sweet and savory dishes. By the end, you’ll have a full understanding of how to replace gelatin with vegan-friendly options, whether you’re making jello, gummy candies, or even soup dumplings.

Understanding Gelatin and Why Vegans Avoid It

What is Gelatin?

Gelatin is a protein-based gelling agent made from collagen, which is extracted from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of animals—typically cows and pigs. It’s widely used in:

• Desserts (like Jell-O, mousses, and marshmallows)
• Gummy candies (such as gummy bears and fruit snacks)
• Thickening soups and sauces
• Pharmaceutical products (capsules, vitamins, and medical jellies)

Since gelatin has strong gelling and binding properties, it’s a popular ingredient in both food and industrial applications. However, for those following a plant-based diet, gelatin is strictly off-limits.

Why is Gelatin Not Vegan?

If you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a cruelty-free alternative, gelatin isn’t an option. Here’s why:

• Animal-Based Source – Gelatin is derived from boiled animal parts, making it unsuitable for a plant-based lifestyle.
• Ethical Concerns – The production of gelatin contributes to the meat industry, which many vegans and vegetarians choose to avoid.
• Hidden in Foods – Many processed foods contain gelatin, even when it’s not explicitly labeled. Some yogurts, sour candies, and even wines use it as a stabilizer.

Luckily, with the rise of plant-based eating, there are now several vegan substitutes for gelatin that work just as well—if not better! In the next section, we’ll explore the best vegan-friendly gelatin alternatives, how they work, and how to use them in your favorite recipes.

The Best Vegan Gelatin Substitutes

Agar-Agar: The Most Popular Alternative

Agar-agar, often simply called agar, is one of the most widely used vegan gelatin substitutes. Made from red algae, it forms a firm gel when mixed with water and heated.

How to Use Agar-Agar

• Dissolve agar powder in liquid and bring it to a boil.
• Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to activate the gelling process.
• Pour the mixture into molds and allow it to set at room temperature.

Pros and Cons of Agar

Pros: Stronger than gelatin, sets quickly, heat-resistant.
Cons: Can be brittle if not used correctly, different texture than gelatin.

Agar is an excellent option for vegan jellies, cheesecakes, and gummies. If you’re interested in using it in soup dumplings, check out this detailed guide on soup dumpling gelatin substitutes.

Pectin: The Fruit-Based Thickener

Pectin is a natural fiber found in fruits, especially citrus peels and apples. It’s commonly used in jams and jellies to create a thick, spreadable consistency.

How to Use Pectin

• Mix pectin powder with sugar and dissolve it in boiling liquid.
• Add acid (like lemon juice) to activate the thickening process.
• Stir continuously and allow the mixture to cool and set.

Best Uses for Pectin

• Fruit preserves and jams
• Pudding and pie fillings
• Plant-based gummy candies

Carrageenan: The Seaweed Alternative

Carrageenan is another seaweed-derived thickener, often used in dairy-free products to create a smooth and creamy texture. It comes in different forms: kappa carrageenan (firm) and iota carrageenan (soft and elastic).

How to Use Carrageenan

• Dissolve in liquid and heat gently.
• Allow to cool for a soft, jelly-like consistency.

Best Uses for Carrageenan

• Dairy-free puddings
• Vegan ice creams
• Soft, creamy jellies

Vegan Jel: A Ready-Made Substitute

For a quick and easy option, Vegan Jel is a pre-mixed alternative that mimics the texture of gelatin. It usually contains agar, pectin, or other plant-based thickeners.

Why Choose Vegan Jel?

• Pre-blended for convenience
• Works well in desserts and gummies
• No need to adjust ratios like with agar or pectin

Cornstarch, Xanthan Gum, and Guar Gum: Functional Substitutes

While they don’t create a gel-like texture, these plant-based thickeners help stabilize and thicken recipes.

• Cornstarch – Best for puddings, custards, and sauces.
• Xanthan Gum – Common in gluten-free baking for thickening and binding.
• Guar Gum – Used in creamy foods like vegan ice creams and yogurts.

These alternatives are perfect for dishes that need a smooth, creamy texture but don’t require a firm gel.

How to Use Vegan Gelatin Substitutes in Recipes

Now that you know the best vegan substitutes for gelatin, let’s look at how to use them in different recipes.

Replacing Gelatin in Gummy Candies and Jellies

If you love gummy candies, you might wonder: Is there a vegan substitute for gelatin? Yes! The best options are agar-agar and pectin.

How to Make Vegan Gummies with Agar

1. Dissolve agar in fruit juice or flavored liquid.
2. Heat until it reaches a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer.
3. Pour into silicone molds and refrigerate until firm.

Pectin-based gummies have a chewier texture, while agar makes them firmer and slightly brittle.

Making Vegan Puddings and Mousses

For creamy vegan desserts, cornstarch, carrageenan, and guar gum are ideal.

How to Thicken Pudding Without Gelatin

• Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold liquid to form a paste.
• Heat the mixture with your main liquid (milk or fruit puree).
• Stir continuously until the pudding thickens.

For extra stability, add a pinch of xanthan gum or guar gum.

Vegan Alternatives for Cheesecakes and Custards

Gelatin is often used to set cheesecakes and custards, but agar-agar works just as well.

How to Make Vegan Cheesecake Without Gelatin

1. Dissolve agar-agar in dairy-free milk and heat.
2. Blend with cashews, coconut cream, or tofu for a rich texture.
3. Pour over a crust and refrigerate until firm.

For a lighter texture, mix in a small amount of pectin or guar gum.

Vegan Gelatin Substitutes in Savory Dishes

Thickening Soups, Sauces, and Gravies

Many traditional soups and sauces use gelatin to add body and thickness, but there are several plant-based alternatives that work just as well.

Best Vegan Substitutes for Thickening Savory Dishes

• Cornstarch – A classic thickener for soups, sauces, and gravies.
• Agar-Agar – Works well for firmer textures, such as aspics or broth-based gels.
• Xanthan Gum & Guar Gum – Help stabilize emulsions like salad dressings and creamy soups.

How to Use Cornstarch to Thicken Soup

1. Combine one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, stirring until a smooth slurry forms.
2. Stir into the soup or sauce while it simmers.
3. Continue cooking for a few minutes until thickened.

This method is perfect for smooth soups and gravies without using animal products.

Substituting Gelatin in Soup Dumplings

Traditional soup dumplings, like xiao long bao, use gelatinized broth inside the filling, which melts when steamed. But can you achieve this effect without gelatin?

Best Vegan Alternatives for Soup Dumplings

• Agar-Agar – Creates a firmer gel, which softens but doesn’t fully liquefy.
• Kappa Carrageenan – Provides a jelly-like texture that closely mimics gelatin.
• Pectin – Works well if combined with starch to prevent a rubbery consistency.

If you’re looking for a complete vegan soup dumpling recipe, check out this guide on making vegan soup dumplings. It explains how to create a gelatin-free broth that still has a rich, hearty texture.

Where to Buy Vegan Gelatin Substitutes

Supermarkets and Health Stores

Vegan gelatin substitutes are becoming easier to find, especially in health food stores and major grocery chains. Here are some places to check:

• Whole Foods Market – Stocks agar-agar, pectin, and carrageenan.
• Trader Joe’s – Sometimes carries agar powder and pectin.
• Asian Grocery Stores – The best place to find high-quality agar-agar.

If you can’t find these ingredients locally, don’t worry—there are plenty of online options!

Online Marketplaces

Shopping online gives you access to a wider variety of brands and bulk options. The best places to buy vegan gelatin substitutes include:

• Amazon – A wide selection of agar powder, pectin, and vegan jel.
• iHerb – Specializes in organic and plant-based ingredients.
• Specialty Vegan Stores – Websites like Thrive Market and Vegan Essentials often carry hard-to-find gelatin substitutes.

By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to replace gelatin in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re making gummy candies, cheesecakes, or dumplings, there’s always a vegan-friendly alternative that works just as well!

FAQs

What is a substitute for gelatin in soup dumplings?

If you’re making soup dumplings (xiao long bao), you’ll need a firm yet melt-in-your-mouth gel to replace traditional gelatin. Some great vegan options include:

• Agar-Agar – Forms a firm gel that softens when heated but won’t fully liquefy.
• Kappa Carrageenan – Creates a smoother, more gelatin-like texture.
• Pectin + Starch Blend – Works well for a slightly softer consistency.

To get the right balance, experiment with different ratios. Agar-agar mixed with a little pectin or starch often gives the best results.

Is there a vegan substitute for gelatin?

Yes! There are several plant-based alternatives to gelatin, including:

• Agar-Agar – A popular substitute made from red algae.
• Pectin – A fruit-based thickener, great for jams and jellies.
• Carrageenan – Derived from seaweed, used in dairy-free products.
• Cornstarch, Xanthan Gum, and Guar Gum – Work as stabilizers in creamy recipes.
• Vegan Jel – A pre-mixed blend designed to mimic gelatin.

Each substitute works best for specific recipes, so choose one based on your dish’s needs.

Can I use wonton wrappers for dumplings?

Yes, wonton wrappers can be used to make dumplings, but there are some key differences:

• Wonton wrappers are thinner and don’t pleat as well as dumpling wrappers.
• They contain less elasticity, which can make them prone to tearing.
• If steaming, lightly dampen the edges to help seal them properly.

For best results, use dumpling wrappers when making traditional dumplings, but wonton wrappers work well for quick and easy recipes.

What is the difference between gyoza and dumplings?

While gyoza and dumplings may seem similar, they have some key differences:

• Dough Thickness – Gyoza wrappers are thinner and crisp up more when pan-fried.
• Filling – Gyoza fillings are often finer and more seasoned.
• Cooking Method – Gyoza are usually pan-fried and steamed, while dumplings can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried.

Essentially, all gyoza are dumplings, but not all dumplings are gyoza!

Final Thoughts and Choosing the Right Substitute

Finding the Best Vegan Gelatin Alternative for Your Recipe

Now that you know the answer to Is there a vegan substitute for gelatin?, let’s quickly recap the best choices for different recipes:

• For gummy candies and jellies → Agar-Agar or Pectin
• For jams and fruit preserves → Pectin
• For creamy desserts (puddings, cheesecakes) → Cornstarch, Guar Gum, or Carrageenan
• For savory dishes (soups, dumplings, gravies) → Agar-Agar, Carrageenan, or Xanthan Gum

Each substitute has unique properties, so it’s worth experimenting to find the perfect balance for your dish.

Final Tips for Success

• Always adjust the ratios based on the substitute you’re using.
• Some substitutes require heat activation, so follow the correct preparation method.
• If a recipe doesn’t set as expected, try chilling longer or adjusting the ingredient amounts.

With the right approach, you can create delicious, gelatin-free dishes without sacrificing texture or flavor!

Conclusion

So, is there a vegan substitute for gelatin? Absolutely! Whether you’re making gummy candies, creamy puddings, or even savory dishes like soup dumplings, there are plenty of plant-based alternatives to choose from.

From agar-agar and pectin to carrageenan and cornstarch, each substitute has its own unique properties that can help you achieve the perfect texture without using animal-derived gelatin. The key is to match the right substitute to your specific recipe—agar works best for firm gels, pectin is great for jams, and cornstarch or carrageenan adds creaminess to desserts.

By using these vegan-friendly options, you can enjoy all your favorite recipes while staying true to a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just starting out, experimenting with these substitutes will open up a whole new world of delicious possibilities!

Now that you know the best vegan substitutes for gelatin, which one are you excited to try first? Let us know in the comments!

Dernière mise à jour : 31 January 2025