Panna Cotta

Ingredients:

1. Unflavored gelatin- 1 envelop (10 gm)
2. Water- 2 tbsp
3. Half and half- 1 cup
4. Heavy cream- 1/2 cup
5. Vanilla extract- 1 tsp
6. Lemon zest- 1/2 tsp
7. Granulated sugar- 2 tbsp

For the Strawberry Sauce:
1. Strawberry- 1 cup
2. Sugar- 1 Tbsp
3. Lemon juice- 1 tsp
4. 1/2 tsp Corn Starch mixed with 1 tbsp of water  

Method:

• Place the water in a small bowl and sprinkle over the gelatin, set aside to soften.
• In a small saucepan, add the heavy cream, half and half, lemon zest and sugar, bring to a simmer over medium heat. Turn the heat off and add the gelatin mixture, whisk for a couple minutes or until the gelatin melts.

• Strain this mixture and add the vanilla extract to the strained mixture.

• Divide the mixture between three large ramekins or four small ones. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. 

To make the sauce:

• Place the strawberries, sugar and lemon juice in a blender and puree it. Strain it through a fine sieve and place the puree in a small saucepan. 

• Bring the puree to a simmer and add the cornstarch mixture and cook stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat and pour it in a small container and let it cool completely. 

• To serve, unmold the panna cotta on to a serving plate. Spoon some cooled sauce around it and enjoy

Recipe courtesy: Laura Vitale