Homemade NAC Gummies: Gelatin vs Agar - Help!
So I tried making my own NAC gummies today with gelatin and the darn things came out like rubber blocks! I used 2 tbsp gelatin, 1/4 cup water, and 1 scoop of my NAC powder (about 750mg). I melted the gelatin, added the powder, poured into molds, and refrigerated for 2 hrs. They're chewy but weirdly hard and taste like bitter rubber. Any tips? Should I use agar instead?
Oh girl, I feel you! I've been making my own vitamins for a while now. The trick is to use less gelatin and add some honey or sugar syrup to balance the bitterness. Also, you gotta let them set at room temp before fridging, and only chill for 30-45 mins, not 2 hours! Gelatin gets too firm if over-chilled. And yes, agar is more forgiving, but it sets differently. I'd try 1 tbsp gelatin, 1/4 cup liquid, and add a bit of honey. Also, use a silicone mold, it's easier to pop out.
Chem nerd here. The bitterness is because NAC is acidic, so you might want to buffer it. I use a little baking soda (like 1/8 tsp) to neutralize it. That helps a lot. Also, if you use agar, you need to boil it to activate, and it sets at room temp - so no fridge needed. But it's more brittle. Gelatin is better for chewiness. For ratios, I use 1 tbsp gelatin per 1/4 cup liquid. And use a candy thermometer to heat to 140°F, but not above or you kill the vitamin. Hope that helps!
Thanks guys! I'll try the honey and baking soda trick next time. I didn't realize over-chilling was a thing. Should I also add some citric acid for taste? Or is that a no-no?
Citric acid might make it more sour, but it could also degrade the NAC. I'd skip it. Maybe try a flavored gelatin like strawberry or cherry to mask the taste. And if you want sour, a tiny bit of lemon juice works, but it might break down the vitamin. Stick to honey or maple syrup!