Panna Cotta

Panna cotta is a luxurious Italian dessert known for its silky-smooth texture and delicate flavor. It is made with a combination of cream, sugar, and gelatin, which sets the dessert into a custard-like consistency. Here’s a recipe for making panna cotta:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons powdered gelatin
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Fresh berries or fruit sauce (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the cream begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
2. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom and soften.
3. Place the saucepan with the cream mixture back on low heat and warm it gently. Do not let it come to a boil. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream and whisk until the gelatin has completely dissolved.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally. This will prevent a skin from forming on the surface.
5. Once the mixture has cooled, pour it into individual serving glasses or ramekins. Fill them about three-fourths full, leaving space for toppings or garnishes.
6. Cover the glasses or ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta has set and is firm to the touch.
7. To serve, you can enjoy the panna cotta as is or add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries or a homemade fruit sauce make excellent accompaniments. Simply spoon the desired amount of topping over each panna cotta just before serving.