kanten crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "kanten crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "kanten crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AGAR: A gelatinous substance obtained from red algae, commonly known as kanten, used as a gelling agent in foods and as a culture medium.
7 Letters
SEAWEED: A general term for marine algae, from which kanten (agar) can be derived.
GELATIN: A protein product derived from collagen, similar in use to kanten as a gelling agent, though kanten is plant-based.
9 Letters
THICKENER: Kanten functions primarily as a substance which, when added to a liquid, increases its viscosity without substantially changing its other properties.
More About "kanten crossword clue"
The clue "kanten" in a crossword often refers to a Japanese gelling agent made from red algae. It's widely used in Asian desserts and vegetarian cooking as a plant-based alternative to gelatin. Knowing this origin and primary use is key to solving puzzles that feature this term.
Crossword constructors love "kanten" because it has several common synonyms and related concepts that fit various word lengths. The most frequent answer is "AGAR" or "AGAR-AGAR," but depending on the context or number of letters, clues might hint at its source, "SEAWEED," or its function, "THICKENER." This versatility makes it a popular, yet sometimes tricky, clue.
Understanding the properties of kanten—such as it being flavorless, colorless, and setting at room temperature—can also help deduce the correct answer. It’s a fantastic example of how knowing a bit about foreign culinary terms can significantly boost your crossword-solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Origin: For clues that seem to be foreign words, think about their country of origin or common cultural associations. "Kanten" points directly to Japanese cuisine.
- Look for Function: If a direct synonym isn't obvious, think about what the item does. Kanten's primary function is as a "THICKENER" or "gelling agent."
- Check Letter Count First: Always cross-reference your potential answers with the required letter count. This is the quickest way to eliminate incorrect solutions and narrow down possibilities.
- Think of Alternatives: If "kanten" is the clue, what are its common alternatives or similar items? "GELATIN" is a perfect example of a widely known similar substance.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kanten?
Kanten is a gelatinous substance obtained from red algae, widely used in Asian cuisine as a gelling agent. It's also known as agar or agar-agar, particularly in Western countries.
Is kanten the same as gelatin?
While both kanten and gelatin are used as gelling agents, they are not the same. Kanten is derived from plant-based seaweed (algae), making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans, whereas gelatin is derived from animal collagen. Kanten also sets more firmly at room temperature.
How is kanten used in cooking?
Kanten is used to thicken and solidify a variety of dishes, including jellies, puddings, desserts (like anmitsu or yokan), and aspics. It's typically dissolved in hot liquid and then cools to form a firm, clear gel.