Panna cotta with raspberry

Raspberry Panna Cotta: An Elegant and Refreshing Dessert

Are you looking for a quick yet refined dessert? Raspberry panna cotta is the perfect choice! This classic Italian dish, which means 'cooked cream', is so versatile that it can be customized in many ways, but this recipe, with a raspberry and pistachio topping, promises to be a true indulgence. Get ready to impress with a dessert that not only looks spectacular but also tastes unforgettable!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 8 hours (ideally overnight)
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 ml heavy cream
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 sheets of gelatin (or equivalent in gelatin granules)
- 150 g fresh raspberries
- 30 g pistachios (shelled and finely chopped)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Gelatin
Start by placing the gelatin sheets in cold water. Let them soak for 10 minutes to hydrate. If using gelatin granules, follow the instructions on the package for rehydration.

2. Infusing the Cream with Vanilla
In a medium-sized saucepan, add the heavy cream, sugar, and seeds scraped from the vanilla bean. Meanwhile, split the bean in half and add it to the saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the cream begins to warm. Do not let it boil, as you want to keep the cream's smooth texture.

3. Adding the Gelatin
Once the cream is warmed, turn off the heat. Remove the vanilla bean and add the hydrated gelatin. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

4. Incorporating the Pistachios and Raspberries
Finely chop the pistachios and add them to the cream mixture. Then, fold in the raspberries, being careful to reserve a few for decoration. Gently mix to avoid crushing the raspberries too much.

5. Pouring into Molds
Pour the mixture into individual molds or a large bowl, according to your preference. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It is best to let them cool and set overnight.

6. Serving the Panna Cotta
When you are ready to serve, remove the panna cotta from the refrigerator. If you used individual molds, dip them in warm water for a few seconds to release them more easily. Carefully invert the panna cotta onto plates.

7. Decorating
Garnish with fresh raspberries on top and, if you desire extra sweetness, you can add a raspberry sauce made from a few raspberries, a little sugar, and water, simmered for a few minutes to achieve a syrupy consistency. Sprinkle the remaining pistachios for a crunchy and elegant look.

Helpful Tips

- About Pistachios: Make sure to use unsalted pistachios so as not to alter the sweet flavor of the dessert. If you don’t have pistachios, you can substitute with chopped almonds or walnuts.
- Gelatin: For a vegetarian option, use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Check the proportions on the package, as agar-agar has different gelling power.
- Raspberries: You can also use other berries, such as blackberries or blueberries, to add a variety of flavors and colors.

Nutritional Benefits

Raspberry panna cotta is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of nutrients. The cream provides healthy fats, while raspberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Pistachios add a boost of protein and minerals, making this dessert a healthier choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use lower-fat cream?
While it is possible, higher-fat cream provides a creamier texture and richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can experiment with reduced-fat cream.

2. Can panna cotta be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze panna cotta, as the texture may be affected. It is best served fresh.

3. What can panna cotta be paired with?
This elegant dessert pairs perfectly with a sweet white wine, such as Moscato or Prosecco, but can also be enjoyed with fruit tea or coffee.

Customized Version

For a personal touch, you can add a splash of raspberry liqueur to the cream mixture for extra flavor. You can also use different flavors, such as oranges or lavender, to transform this dessert into a true personalized delight.

Raspberry panna cotta is a dessert that combines the simplicity of home cooking with the elegance of top restaurants. With a little patience and love, you can bring a touch of culinary magic to your table. Savor every bite and enjoy the applause of your loved ones for this refined treat!