Panna cotta is a classic Italian creamy and smooth dessert, often flavoured with vanilla and served with a fruit sauce or coulis.

Here’s a simple recipe for making panna cotta

Ingredients for the Panna Cotta

2 cups heavy cream- 1 cup whole milk- 1/2 cup granulated sugar- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder (or 4 sheets of gelatin)- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)- A pinch of salt.

Fruits Compote

For the Fruit Sauce (optional)1 cup berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the fruit)- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

How to make it: :

Making the Panna Cotta:

Prepare the Gelatin: If using gelatin powder, sprinkle it over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes spongy.- If using gelatin sheets, soak them in cold water for about 5-10 minutes until softened, then squeeze out excess water.

Heat the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. If using a vanilla bean, split it open and scrape the seeds into the mixture, adding the pod. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Add the Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat. If using powdered gelatin, stir it into the warm cream mixture until completely dissolved. If using sheet gelatin, add the drained sheets to the warm mixture and stir until dissolved. Add Vanilla, If you used a vanilla bean, remove the pod. Stir in the vanilla extract. Cool and Set. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or moulds. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Making the Compote or Fruit Sauce (optional)

Prepare the Sauce. Combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly about 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool. You can strain it if you prefer a smoother sauce.

In my case, I was using mixed lemon curd and tin passion fruit juice and sprinkled with strawberry bits. You can do whatever you like.

Serving: Unmold the Panna Cotta (if using moulds): To unmold, dip the bottom of the mould briefly in warm water, then invert it onto a plate.

Serve: Drizzle the fruit sauce over the panna cotta and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your homemade panna cotta!