What Is
One of the best known and frequently requested desserts, panna cotta – literally “cooked cream” – originated in Piedmont and is made of cream and sugar. There are different versions and flavorings. Its delicate sweetness, smooth texture and the elegant way it is plated make it a perfect treat at the end of a meal.
How To
To prepare panna cotta, very fresh cream is heated with sugar, then isinglass, which has been soaked and wrung out, is added. This last ingredient is used to give the dessert a soft and gelatinous consistency. The mixture is then allowed to cool for at least six hours in the refrigerator before serving.
Italian Tradition
A feature of virtually every dessert menu in Italy, panna cotta is one of the most popular desserts to be eaten with a spoon. Some kinds are flavored with coffee, some with lavender, or perhaps almond, rosemary or caramel; and they are always brought to the table with warm sauces based on berries, chocolate, cream or caramel.
How To Keep It Fresh
Panna cotta keeps for 3 days in the refrigerator, closely covered with foil or plastic wrap.
