This China Grass Pudding is so quick to make and so lusciously creamy (think panna cotta creamy) It looks super fancy but can be ready with little to no effort!
In a small pot, on medium low heat, add the agar powder and some water and let it come to a boil. Using a whisk, stir constantly till the powder is fully dissolved. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to dissolve it completely or else you will have a grainy textured pudding.
Meanwhile, in a separate medium sized pot, on medium heat, bring to a gentle boil the half and half, heavy cream and honey. About 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the agar agar and make sure it doesn't burn. Turn off the stove while you wait for the milk and honey mixture to finish boiling.
Once the agar powder is dissolved fully, add it to the cream and honey mixture and stir till fully combined. Bring to a gentle simmer. Another 5 minutes.
Next, pour everything in a medium sized shallow dish and let the dessert rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with saffron threads and sliced almonds. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the pudding to set. Enjoy chilled.
Notes
Use cold water when working with agar powder and bring it to a boil with the powder in it.
If using agar threads, you would need to pre soak the threads in some water and then add it to a pot of boiling water to dissolve fully before continuing to add it to the boiled milk mixture.
It is critical to dissolve the agar powder completely before pouring it into the milk. If not fully dissolved, the resulting pudding will be grainy in texture.
The honey gives a tiny after taste which works pretty well in this pudding but if you don't care for it, try using white honey.
Storage: China grass pudding can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. Note that as it sits, it will release some water. This is normal and does not change the taste of the pudding. Seal the serving dish with some plastic wrap and foil before storing.