Deliciously Creamy, Naturally Vegetarian
Panna cotta is an old Italian dessert that literally means “cooked cream.” Smooth, creamy, and delicately sweet, it is beloved across many regions of the world. Traditional panna cotta does include gelatin from animal sources, so this vegetarian version uses agar-agar as a plant-based gelatin substitute to set the dessert. This vegetarian eggless panna cotta recipe helps you prepare a scrumptious vegetarian panna cotta.
Ingredients for Panna Cotta:
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version
- ¼ cup (50 grams) sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for added flavor
- 1 ½ tsp agar-agar powder (vegetarian alternative to gelatin)
- Pinch of salt
For the Fruit Coulis (Optional):
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Instructions to prepare Vegetarian Panna Cotta:
Preparing the Panna Cotta Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir gently to mix the two liquids together.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste to the milk and cream mixture. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Put the saucepan over medium heat.
- Dissolve the agar-agar powder in a few tbsp water (about 3 to 4 tbsp). As soon as it is fully dissolved, add the agar-agar to the saucepan. Milk and cream should be added to it while continuing to stir constantly and homogenize.
- Heat the mixture with constant stirring over medium heat, then add a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and leave it for 2-3 minutes during which time the agar-agar will dissolve fully. This is essential as it ensures the agar sets when activated.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance out the flavors because of the sweetness of the gelatin.
- It ensures that panna cotta is smooth and has no agar-agar lumps while straining the mixture over a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or measuring jug. The purpose of doing this is removing undissolved agar particles and will result in the silky-smooth texture.
Setting Panna Cotta
- Pour this mixture into individual molds or glasses, ramekins. The number of the servings depends on the size of the molds. This recipe typically fills 4-6 tiny servings.
- Allow your panna cotta to cool to room temperature for a few 15-20 minutes before chilling in the refrigerator.
- Once the panna cotta has cooled, cover the molds with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. Let them set for at least 4 hours or until chilled and firm.
Preparing the Fruit Coulis (Optional)
- Cooking of fruits While the panna cotta is setting, prepare an easy fruit coulis for serving. Put mixed berries in a small saucepan. Mix them with sugar and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat and keep stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the berries start to break down and thicken the mixture like syrup.
- Use a hand blender or transfer the cooked fruit mixture to a blender to purée until very smooth. If you want the coulis seed-free, strain through a fine mesh sieve as well.
- Let cool to room temperature before service.
Served Panna Cotta
- After it has reached a firm, chilled texture, gently insert a knife around the edge of the panna cotta in the mold, loosening it. To unmold ramekins or glasses, merely serve directly from the baking dish. To unmold any other molds, invert the mold onto the plate and give a gentle shake for the panna cotta to come loose.
- Spoon on top of panna cotta a liberal amount of the fruit coulis, and you can dress it further with fresh berries, leaves of fresh mint, or a touch of honey for an added touch of elegance
- Consume immediately or keep chilled for later. The creamy smooth texture of panna cotta complements the sweet and tangy fruit coulis to a perfect harmonious dessert that is fresh and refreshing
Tips and variations for Vegetarian Panna Cotta:
- You can actually flavor the panna cotta with other flavors. You can add coffee, chocolate, or citrus. Just imagine adding a few tablespoons of brewed espresso to make a coffee-flavored panna cotta or infusing the cream with lemon zest for that citrus twist.
- If you would like a vegan or dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and the whole milk with almond milk or another non-dairy alternative. Make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly because some sugars are processed with animal bone char.
- Agar-agar acts differently compared to gelatin, so make sure you use the right amount, as indicated. If you want it firmer or softer, just add a bit more or less agar-agar.
- You can top panna cotta with caramel sauce, roasted nuts, chocolate shavings, or cinnamon for various flavor profiles.
Conclusion:
This is a vegetarian classic panna cotta that’s rich, creamy, and very easy to make and can be easily adjusted to any dietary preference. Be it a tangy fruit coulis or fresh berries, this elegant dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. The smooth texture and delicate flavors make it the perfect treat for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a sophisticated dinner party. Enjoy your homemade panna cotta—without eggs—knowing that you’ve created a delightful and timeless dessert.
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