Desserts > Italian > Panna Cotta

Agar-Agar Panna Cotta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
- 1/4 cup cold water

Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ramekins or molds
- Refrigerator

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. In a small bowl, mix the agar-agar powder with the cold water until well combined.
3. Add the agar-agar mixture to the saucepan and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it comes to a simmer.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Pour the mixture into ramekins or molds and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
7. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the ramekins or molds and invert onto a plate.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 400
Fat per serving: 35g
Carbohydrates per serving: 20g
Protein per serving: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Agar-agar powder can be substituted with gelatin powder.

Variations:
- Add fruit puree or extract to the mixture before pouring into ramekins or molds for a flavored panna cotta.
- Top with fresh fruit or a fruit compote before serving.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the agar-agar mixture well to avoid clumps.
- Use a silicone mold for easy removal of the panna cotta.
- To loosen the panna cotta from the ramekin or mold, dip the bottom in hot water for a few seconds.

Storage instructions:
Store the panna cotta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Panna cotta is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the panna cotta on a plate with a drizzle of fruit compote and a sprig of mint.

Garnishes:
Fresh fruit, fruit compote, mint leaves

Pairings:
Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a cup of coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad, biscotti

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the panna cotta does not set, increase the amount of agar-agar powder used.
- If the panna cotta is too firm, decrease the amount of agar-agar powder used.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and equipment when making the panna cotta to avoid contamination.

Food history:
Panna cotta is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the Piedmont region.

Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, vanilla

Serving suggestions:
Serve the panna cotta chilled as a dessert after a meal.

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Taste: Creamy, Sweet, Vanilla, Smooth