Traditional Jellied Eels Recipe

Step into the heart of East London’s culinary heritage with this traditional recipe for jellied eels. Dating back to the 18th century, jellied eels were once a staple dish of the working-class communities along the River Thames. Today, they remain a beloved delicacy, offering a unique taste of London’s rich gastronomic history. Follow this authentic recipe to recreate the flavours of old East London in your own kitchen.

Jellied Eels Ingredients:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) fresh eels, cleaned and chopped into 5cm (2 inch) pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon malt vinegar
• 1.5 litre (6 cups) water
• 30g (1oz) gelatine
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Malt vinegar (for serving)
• White pepper (for serving)

Jellied Eels Instructions Follow Step By Step:

• In a large pot, combine the chopped eels, chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, ground black pepper, salt, and malt vinegar.
• Pour in the water, ensuring that the eels are fully submerged.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the eels are cooked through and tender.
• Once the eels are cooked, remove them from the pot and strain the cooking liquid through a fine sieve to remove any impurities.
• Return the strained liquid to the pot and bring it back to a gentle simmer.
• In a separate bowl, dissolve the gelatine in a small amount of hot water according to the package instructions.
• Once the gelatine is fully dissolved, stir it into the simmering liquid until well combined.
• Remove the pot from the heat and allow the liquid to cool slightly.
• Arrange the cooked eels in a shallow dish or individual serving bowls.
• Carefully pour the cooled liquid over the eels, ensuring that they are fully covered.
• Place the dish or bowls in the refrigerator and leave them to set for at least 4-6 hours, or until the jelly is firm.
• Once set, remove the jellied eels from the refrigerator and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
• Serve the jellied eels cold, accompanied by malt vinegar and a pinch of white pepper for an authentic East London experience.

Enjoy the nostalgic flavours of jellied eels, a classic dish that has stood the test of time in London’s culinary landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe offers a taste of history that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

jellied eels Health Benefit:

Jellied eels, a traditional British dish, have been consumed for centuries and are often considered a delicacy. While opinions on their taste and texture vary, there are several potential health benefits associated with jellied eels that may make them worth considering as part of a balanced diet.

One of the key benefits of jellied eels is their nutritional content. Eels are a rich source of essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy properties. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Eels are also a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein is also important for maintaining muscle mass, supporting immune function, and regulating hormones. A 100-gram serving of jellied eels can provide around 15 grams of protein, making it a valuable addition to the diet, especially for those looking to increase their protein intake.

In addition to protein and omega-3 fatty acids, jellied eels are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells, while vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and plays a role in thyroid function.

Another potential health benefit of jellied eels is their low calorie and fat content. A 100-gram serving of jellied eels contains around 150 calories and 5 grams of fat, making it a relatively low-calorie and low-fat food. This can be beneficial for those looking to manage their weight or reduce their intake of saturated fat.

It’s important to note that while jellied eels can be a nutritious addition to the diet, they are not suitable for everyone. Some people may be allergic to eels or have an aversion to the taste or texture of jellied eels. Additionally, eels can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful in large amounts. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children should limit their consumption of eels to reduce their exposure to mercury.

While jellied eels may not be to everyone’s taste, they do offer several potential health benefits. They are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, and they are relatively low in calories and fat. As with any food, it’s important to enjoy jellied eels in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Jellied eels Video