What Is Gelatin?

Gelatin comes from the collagen found in the bones, connective tissue, and skin of pigs, cattle, and other animals. Collagen may also be derived from fish bones. Boiling the bones extracts the protein, which "sets up," or partially solidifies, as it cools. This is what produces the gelatinous, fatty layer on top of a pot of homemade stock. Gelatin sold commercially for culinary purposes is purified before it's dried and packaged.

Varieties

Gelatin comes in sheets or powder. Professional chefs tend to prefer the thin, flat sheets, also called leaf gelatin, because it dissolves slowly and results in a clearer final product, with a more pure taste. The individual grains in gelatin powder disperse more easily throughout a dish and dissolve faster.

Sheet gelatin can be found in four distinct strengths: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. The "bloom strength" distinguishes each level. The higher the bloom strength, the higher the melting points of the gel and the shorter the gelling set time.

Gelatin thickens puddings, yogurt, gummy candies, fruit gelatin desserts, ice cream, panna cotta, marshmallows, and more. It can be mixed into any number of liquids or semi-solid substances to create structure and form.

Packets of gelatin sold in most grocery stores typically contain 1/4 ounce, or one tablespoon, of gelatin powder. This amount is enough to thicken approximately two cups of liquid, although you can use more to produce a firmer end product. You need four gelatin sheets for the same amount of liquid. Some cooks find it easier to count sheets than to measure or weigh out the powder.

Gelatin solidifies as it cools and generally requires refrigeration. The concentration and grade of gelatin determine the exact temperatures at which it solidifies and melts. Most gelatin has a melting point near body temperature, which gives foods made with gelatin a smooth, creamy mouthfeel similar to chocolate.