Give it some jelly

For sensuous modern jellies follow these tips:

• Use one 12g sachet of powdered gelatine or 4 leaves of gelatine as a setting agent per 600ml liquid (you can use water, wine, fruit juice or milk).
• Add an extra half sachet or two more leaves for jelly which can be confidently turned out.
• Preparing gelatine is notoriously tricky, but as long as you sprinkle the powder or leaves over a few tbsp just-boiled water (rather than the other way round), leave it for several minutes to soften then beat it immediately, you’ll create the perfect sticky syrupy liquid.
• If the grains of gelatine won’t dissolve, place the bowl of not-yet-gelled solution in another bowl of just-boiled water bain-marie style. Leave for a few minutes then give it a good stir.
• Never boil gelatine solution or it will never set, and always add the dissolved gelatine to warm liquid or it will set into rubbery lumps. It is best to dilute the concentrated molten gelatine with just a little warmed liquid before incorporating it into the rest of the warm liquid base.
• Smear the mould with a little tasteless vegetable oil before you fill it, so the jelly turns out easily. When it is set, immerse the mould quickly in a sink slightly filled with hot water. Be careful not to let the jelly melt.

White Grape and Blueberry Jelly
Serves 4

600ml white grape juice
4 tsp powdered gelatine
110g white grapes, halved and deseeded
110g blueberries, washed

1. Put 5 tbsp fruit juice into a small saucepan. Slowly sprinkle the gelatine over, making sure it is completely absorbed by the liquid. Avoid stirring if possible. Set aside for at least 5 minutes.
2. Put the saucepan over a low heat and allow the gelatine to melt, without boiling. It should end up clear and not cloudy.
3. Heat the remaining fruit juice in a large saucepan. Stir the dissolved gelatine into the mixture and leave to stand for 15 minutes.
4. Mix the fruits together and place in a large 1 litre serving bowl. Pour the cool fruit liquid over the top. Cover and refrigerate for 3–4 hours until completely set.