Strawberry Panna Cotta Without Gelatin
A vegetarian option for a simple yet elegant dessert. Panna Cotta is a rich and creamy Italian dessert known for its smooth and silky texture. Top with homemade strawberry compote and garnish with mint leaves.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Serving glasses or shot glass
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- mint leaves for garnish
STRAWBERRY COMPOTE
- 2 cups diced strawberries, more for toppings
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- MAKE THE CREAMY MIXTURE: In a saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Sprinkle the agar powder over the cream mixture and whisk well to combine. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the agar powder is fully dissolved.
- CHILL THE PANNA COTTA: Remove the cream mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the mixture into a glass (or divide between 4 shot glasses) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- MAKE THE STRAWBERRY COMPOTE: Cut the strawberries into small dice. Place them in a saucepan, and add the sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer, stirring occasionally (keep an eye not to overflow). Continue simmering until it is reduced in half about 10-15 minutes. Cool completely before adding to the panna cotta
- ASSEMBLE: Spoon the cooled strawberry compote on top of the chilled panna cotta. Top with fresh diced strawberries and garnish with mint leaves.
Video
Notes
The texture of this panna cotta using agar powder is similar to pudding. Using gelatin produces a softer, smoother texture with a delicate jiggle. Ultimately, the choice between regular gelatin and agar powder comes down to personal preferences for texture and dietary considerations.