Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp powdered gelatin
- 1/4 cup cold water
Special equipment needed:
- 4-6 ramekins or small bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar and cocoa powder are fully dissolved.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Once the cream mixture is hot and steaming, remove it from the heat and pour it over the gelatin mixture. Whisk until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a measuring cup with a spout.
5. Divide the mixture evenly among the ramekins or small bowls.
6. Chill the panna cotta in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 400
Fat: 33g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 30mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
- Cocoa powder can be substituted with melted chocolate for a richer flavor.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cream mixture for a mocha flavor.
- Top the panna cotta with fresh berries or whipped cream for a fruity twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to fully dissolve the gelatin in the cream mixture to avoid lumps.
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps or air bubbles from the mixture before pouring it into the ramekins.
Storage instructions:
Store the panna cotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Panna cotta is best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, place the ramekins in a warm water bath for a few minutes before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the panna cotta in the ramekins or unmold them onto a plate for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Top the panna cotta with shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, or fresh berries.
Pairings:
Pair the panna cotta with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a decadent dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the panna cotta with a side of biscotti or shortbread cookies.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the panna cotta doesn't set, try adding more gelatin to the mixture.
- If the panna cotta is too firm, reduce the amount of gelatin in the recipe.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to refrigerate the panna cotta at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert that originated in the Piedmont region. It is traditionally made with cream, sugar, and gelatin.
Flavor profiles:
The chocolate panna cotta has a rich and creamy texture with a deep chocolate flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the panna cotta as a dessert after a dinner party or as a special treat for yourself.
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Region: Italian
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Chocolatey, Sweet, Decadent