Yes, agar agar melts when heated. However, it has specific temperature requirements for melting.
Agar agar is a phycocolloid extracted from red algae, known for its gelling properties. Unlike gelatin, it requires a higher temperature to melt.
Melting Point of Agar Agar
- Agar agar needs to be heated to a temperature between 85-90°C (185-194°F) to melt. It will not melt at lower temperatures.
- It's essential to stir the agar continuously during heating to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.
Important Considerations
- Avoid Prolonged Boiling: While agar agar needs to reach a high temperature to melt, prolonged boiling after melting can degrade its gelling ability.
- Complete Dissolution: Ensure the agar agar is completely dissolved before allowing it to cool and set. Undissolved particles can result in a grainy texture.
Summary
Agar agar does melt when heated to a specific temperature range of 85-90°C. Proper heating and stirring are crucial for optimal results and to preserve its gelling capabilities.
