Panna Cotta Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

• For the Panna Cotta:

  • 2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk

  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 packet (7g) powdered gelatin (about 2 1/4 tsp)

  • 2 tbsp cold water

• For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) red fruit syrup (raspberry, strawberry, or cherry syrup)

  • Fresh berries (such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries)

  • Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Method:

1. Prepare the Gelatin:

   • In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the gelatin to soften and bloom.

2. Heat the Cream Mixture:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar.

   • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the cream is hot but not boiling (just below a simmer).

3. Add the Gelatin and Vanilla:

   • Remove the cream mixture from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.

   • Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture and whisk until the gelatin has completely dissolved.

4. Strain the Mixture:

   • To ensure a silky smooth texture, pour the cream mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or jug. This will remove any undissolved gelatin or lumps.

5. Pour into Molds:

   • Divide the mixture evenly into 4 serving dishes, ramekins, or glasses. Allow the panna cotta to cool to room temperature.

6. Chill the Panna Cotta:

   • Cover the panna cotta and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. You can leave it overnight for best results.

7. Prepare the Topping:

   • While the panna cotta is setting, prepare the topping. You can either use store-bought fruit syrup or make a simple one by simmering 1/2 cup of berries with 1/4 cup of sugar and a splash of water until the mixture becomes thick and syrupy. Strain the syrup and let it cool.

   • Wash and prepare your fresh berries.

8. Serve the Panna Cotta:

   • Once the panna cotta is set, you can either serve it in the dishes or carefully unmold it by running a knife around the edge and inverting it onto a serving plate.

   • Drizzle the top of the panna cotta with the sweet red fruit syrup.

   • Garnish with fresh berries and, if desired, a sprig of mint for color and freshness.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: Panna cotta is great for preparing ahead of time. You can make it the day before and keep it refrigerated until serving.

• Unmolding: If you want to unmold the panna cotta, dip the molds briefly in hot water to loosen them before inverting onto a plate.

• Variations: You can infuse the cream mixture with different flavors like lemon zest, coffee, or chocolate for variations.

This Panna Cotta with a topping of berries and sweet red syrup is an elegant and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion!