The Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Strawberries is a sophisticated and creamy Italian dessert that features the rich and smooth texture of panna cotta paired with the sweet and juicy flavor of fresh strawberries. The vanilla bean infuses the panna cotta with a delicate fragrance and subtle sweetness, while the gelatin ensures a perfectly set, silky consistency. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a burst of color and natural sweetness, creating a visually appealing and refreshing dessert. Garnished with mint leaves, this panna cotta is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes.
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
2 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons water
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
Heat Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the saucepan. If using vanilla extract, add it later with the gelatin. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Add Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from the heat. If using vanilla extract, add it now. Remove the vanilla bean pod. Stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any lumps. Divide the mixture evenly among 6 ramekins or dessert cups.
Chill: Refrigerate the panna cotta for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Prepare Strawberries: In a bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with a teaspoon of sugar (optional) to enhance their sweetness.
Serve: Before serving, top each panna cotta with the sliced strawberries and garnish with fresh mint leaves. You can also unmold the panna cotta onto plates if desired. Enjoy this creamy and luscious Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with the added freshness of strawberries!
The Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Strawberries is a delightful and elegant dessert that will impress anyone who tastes it. Its silky texture, fragrant vanilla flavor, and the added freshness of strawberries make it a perfect choice for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can create a professional-quality panna cotta in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy the exquisite taste and elegance of this Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Strawberries!
