Vanilla bean panna cotta
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Vanilla bean panna cotta is a classic Italian dessert that translates to 'cooked cream.' It is a silky, smooth custard-like treat made by simmering cream, milk, and sugar, then setting it with gelatin and infusing it with the aromatic seeds of a vanilla bean. The result is a delicate, elegant dessert that is often served chilled with a fruit coulis or fresh berries.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dessert is high in fat and calories, primarily from the cream and sugar, with a moderate amount of protein from the dairy. A typical serving provides a good source of calcium and vitamin A, and generally ranges from 300 to 450 calories per portion.
💡 What's interesting
Panna cotta's signature wobbly texture is a hallmark of its Italian culinary heritage, representing a simple yet sophisticated use of dairy. The use of a whole vanilla bean, rather than extract, provides a superior, complex flavor with visible specks, making it a hallmark of a truly premium version of the dish.