Just so we’re clear, those aren’t eggs from butterflies 🤭. This recipe for soy sauce pearls is a fun and creative way to add a touch of molecular gastronomy to your dishes. Perfect for food art enthusiasts, these pearls are easy to make and can be stored for up to 3 days. A unique addition to your culinary repertoire!
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Chill a tall glass of neutral oil in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
Mix soy sauce with agar agar powder in a saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the agar agar powder completely.
Let the soy mixture cool for 2–3 minutes.
Use a dropper to drip the soy mixture into the cold oil. Pearls will form instantly.
Strain the pearls and rinse them with cold water.
Store the pearls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ensure the oil is thoroughly chilled to help the pearls form properly.
Use a tall glass for the oil to allow enough space for the pearls to form and settle.
Avoid letting the soy mixture cool for too long, as it may start to set and become difficult to work with.
Experiment with different flavors by substituting soy sauce with other liquids like balsamic vinegar or fruit juices.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil like canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil. Avoid strongly flavored oils as they may affect the taste of the pearls.
How long can I store the soy sauce pearls?
You can store the pearls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different gelling agent instead of agar agar?
Agar agar is ideal for this recipe due to its ability to set quickly in cold oil. Other gelling agents may not produce the same results.
What dishes can I use soy sauce pearls for?
Soy sauce pearls can be used as a garnish for sushi, salads, appetizers, or any dish where you want to add a burst of soy sauce flavor.
Do I need a special dropper for this recipe?
No, any clean dropper or pipette will work as long as it allows you to control the size of the droplets.
Sandra is the face behind @SaffronandTarragon who shares approachable, globally-inspired recipes with practical tips and honest, relatable moments.
