Panna cotta

Panna Cotta with Strawberries: A Delicate and Tasty Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Panna Cotta, an iconic Italian dessert, has won the hearts of many due to its creamy texture and refined flavor. This simple and delicious recipe will take you on a culinary journey, with each spoonful making you feel like you're in the finest restaurants. If you're looking for a quick, elegant dessert that is also easy to make, you've come to the right place!

Your magical ingredients:

- 350 ml heavy cream (ideally with at least 30% fat for a rich and creamy result)
- 150 ml whole milk (dairy products with a higher fat content provide a more intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your sweetness preferences)
- 1 vial of vanilla essence (to add a floral and aromatic note)
- 5 sheets of gelatin (make sure they are of good quality to achieve the perfect texture)
- Fresh strawberries (for decoration and a contrast of acidity)

Step by step: How to prepare Panna Cotta

1. Preparing the gelatin: Start by placing the 5 sheets of gelatin in cold water, letting them soak for about 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure that the gelatin dissolves evenly in the cream mixture.

2. Heating the cream: In a medium saucepan, add the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently to dissolve the sugar. Do not let the mixture reach boiling point; remove it from the heat as soon as it starts to bubble.

3. Adding the gelatin: As soon as you've removed the saucepan from the heat, add the soaked gelatin. Stir continuously, ensuring that the gelatin completely dissolves in the mixture. This step is essential to avoid lumps.

4. Flavoring: Once the gelatin is completely dissolved, add the vanilla essence. Its aroma will transform your dessert from simple to spectacular.

5. Pouring into molds: To prevent the panna cotta from sticking, you can rinse the molds with a jet of cold water before pouring in the mixture. This will help with easier unmolding. Fill the molds with the panna cotta mixture and let them chill in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours, or until completely set.

6. Serving: Once the panna cotta is well set, you can easily unmold it. Invert the mold onto a plate and give it a gentle tap with your hand to release it. Decorate with fresh strawberries, sliced or whole, for a contrast of color and flavor.

Tips and practical advice:

- Choosing gelatin: If you prefer a vegan dessert, you can use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Follow the instructions on the package for correct usage.
- Fruit variation: Panna Cotta pairs perfectly with a variety of fruits. You can try it with raspberries, blueberries, or even mango for a burst of tropical flavors.
- The final indulgence: If you want to add a touch of elegance, you can make a strawberry sauce by mixing them with a bit of sugar and letting them sit for a few minutes to release their juice. Pour the sauce over the panna cotta before serving.

Nutritional benefits:
Panna Cotta, although a rich dessert, also offers nutritional benefits thanks to the cream and milk. These contain calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D, essential for bone and skin health. Strawberries, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, contributing to a strong immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

- What can I use instead of gelatin? You can use agar-agar, which is a plant-based alternative, but make sure to follow the usage instructions.
- Can I make panna cotta without dairy? Yes, you can use nut or soy cream and milk for a vegan version.
- How long can panna cotta be stored? You can keep panna cotta in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! This wonderful dessert will surely become one of your favorites, and the appreciation of your loved ones will not be long in coming. Enjoy!