Ingredients
Dairy
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 drops purple food coloring
Thickening Agents
- 3 sheets gelatin
Herbs
- 2 tbsp dried lavender buds
Instructions
- Prepare the molds: Lightly grease the inside of the glasses with vegetable oil using a paper towel to leave only a thin oil residue if you plan to unmold the panna cotta. Otherwise, you can leave them uncoated for serving in the glasses.
- Soften the gelatin: Soak the gelatin sheets in cold water until they become soft and pliable, then set aside while you continue with the recipe.
- Heat the dairy mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar and heat until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Make sure not to bring it to a boil to avoid curdling.
- Add gelatin: Remove the pan from heat and thoroughly squeeze excess water from the gelatin sheets, then add them to the warm dairy mixture, stirring constantly until the gelatin completely melts into the liquid.
- Flavor and steep: Stir in the vanilla extract, dried lavender buds, and purple food coloring. Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes to let the lavender infuse its flavor.
- Strain and pour: Pass the mixture through a fine sieve to remove lavender buds and any solids. Pour the smooth liquid evenly into the prepared molds or glasses.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the panna cotta until set, which takes at least 4 hours or preferably overnight for the best texture.
- Unmold and serve: To remove from molds, briefly dip the bottoms into hot water for about 5 seconds to loosen. Run a knife gently around the edges and invert onto serving plates carefully.
Notes
- Use high-quality dried lavender to avoid bitterness and ensure a pleasant floral aroma.
- If you prefer a stronger lavender flavor, increase steeping time but be cautious as too long can become overpowering.
- For a vegan version, replace gelatin with agar-agar and adjust setting time accordingly.
- The purple food coloring is optional and can be adjusted to your desired shade.
- This dessert is best enjoyed within 2 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian