A Trip to the Heart of Italy
The Panna Cotta, whose name in Italian means "cream cooked" is one of those desserts that, despite its simplicity, manages to capture the essence of Italian gastronomy: elegant, delicate and deliciously irresistible. Originally from the region of Piedmont in northern Italy, this dessert has earned a privileged place on the tables of all the world thanks to its soft texture and its taste is subtly sweet.
It is believed that the Panna Cotta it was created by a Hungarian woman in the early TWENTIETH century, although some historians gastronomic place their roots much further back, when it was used fish collagen instead of gelatin moderna. This dessert was a perfect way to take advantage of the fresh cream from the abundant milk production of Piedmont, quickly becoming a classic.
Why Love the Panna Cotta?
Beyond its delicious taste, the Panna Cotta it has several benefits that make it stand out. It is a dessert versatile and adapts to different accompaniments such as sauces red fruit, caramel, or even coffee. In addition, its preparation is fast and easy, so it allows you to enjoy a dessert of haute cuisine without complications. For lovers of the pastry, it represents an excellent base to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Classic recipe of Panna Cotta
Ingredients (for 4 servings)
- 500 ml of cream (milk cream)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 vanilla pod or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 g of gelatin in sheets or 1 envelope gelatin powder without flavor
- 2 tablespoons of cold water (if using powdered gelatin)
- Salsa red fruit or candy for garnish (optional)
Preparation
- Hydrate the gelatin: If using gelatin sheets, place it in a bowl with cold water for 5-10 minutes until soft. If using powdered gelatin, disuélvela in two tablespoons of cold water and left to stand.
- Prepare the mixture: In a saucepan, pour the cream and add the sugar. Open the vanilla pod lengthwise, scrape the seeds and add them along with the pod (if using extract, add it later). Heat over medium heat until just about to boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Incorporate the gelatin: Remove from the heat and add the drained gelatine or dissolved, stirring well until completely dissolved. If you used the vanilla pod, remove it at this point.
- Cool down: Pour the mixture into ramekins or glasses. Let cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- To serve: Unmold if desired or serve directly in the vessel. Accompanied with a sauce of red fruits, caramel, or the topping of your choice.
Nutritional information (per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fats: 22 g
- Saturated fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugars: 18 g
- Proteins: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
Beyond the Recipe: Curiosities and Variations
Benefits of the Panna Cotta
Although it is not a low-calorie dessert, the Panna Cotta it offers interesting benefits. The cream contains calcium and vitamin A, essential for bone health and the skin. In addition, to be a dessert without flour, is a option suitable for people with gluten intolerance.
Popular variations of the Panna Cotta
- Panna Cotta Coffee: Replaces part of the cream for espresso coffee for a touch intense and aromatic.
- Vegan Version: It replaces the cream for coconut milk or almond and uses agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- Chocolate: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the hot mixture to a version more of a sweet tooth.
- Exotic: Test add coconut milk and a pinch of cardamom for a taste of the east.
Tips for a Perfect Result
- Do not let the cream boil completely, just heat it up to boiling point.
- To unmold easily, dipped briefly the mold in hot water.
- Adjusts the amount of gelatin according to the desired texture: less gelatin for a creamier texture, more to a firm consistency.
Conclusion
The Panna Cotta it is much more than a dessert simple: it's a reflection of Italian elegance in every bite. Its easy preparation, its versatility and its unique taste makes it an ideal choice for any occasion, from a sophisticated dinner up a craving sweet improvised.
Do you dare to prepare this delicacy at home? ¡Tell us about your experience or share your variations favorites in the comments!
Learn more about Italian Cuisine in our article:
Italian cuisine: 10 Dishes to Classic and How to Cook them
