Ingredients:

• 15g Gelatin: This is the key ingredient that helps set the panna cotta, giving it that signature creamy yet firm texture.
• 200ml Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the dessert.
• 200ml Milk: Balances the richness of the cream and helps create a silky texture.
• 90g Sugar: Sweetens the panna cotta and the blueberry mixture.
• 1 tsp Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet note.
• 220ml Water: Used to soak the gelatin.
• 1/2 Lime: Adds a slight tang to the blueberry mixture.
• 250g Blueberries: Provides a fresh, fruity flavor and a natural purple hue.
• Purple Food Coloring (Optional): Enhances the purple color, making the dessert more vibrant.
• Fresh Mint (for Garnish): Adds a fresh and aromatic touch to the finished dessert.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gelatin:

• Soak Gelatin: In a small bowl, soak 15g of gelatin in 220ml of cold water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the gelatin blooms and absorbs the water. This step is crucial as it ensures the gelatin will dissolve properly in the mixture later on.

2. Cook the Blueberries:

• Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 250g of fresh or frozen blueberries, 90g of sugar, and the juice from 1/2 a lime. The lime juice adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
• Cook Blueberries: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture until the blueberries start to break down and release their juices. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Blend and Strain: Once the blueberries have broken down, remove the mixture from heat and blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, leaving you with a smooth blueberry puree. Set aside.

3. Heat the Cream and Milk:

• Heat the Mixture: In a separate saucepan, combine 200ml of heavy cream and 200ml of milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to boil, then remove from heat. Be careful not to let it boil over.

4. Add Gelatin and Blueberry Mixture:

• Dissolve Gelatin: Add the soaked gelatin to the hot cream and milk mixture. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved. This step is essential for ensuring that your panna cotta sets properly.
• Combine with Blueberry Puree: Pour the prepared blueberry puree into the cream mixture. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. If you want a more vibrant color, add a few drops of purple food coloring and stir until fully incorporated.

5. Pour into Cups:

• Prepare Molds: Choose 4 cups or molds, each with a capacity of about 220ml. Pour the mixture evenly into the cups. The consistency should be smooth and pourable.

6. Chill:

• Refrigerate: Place the cups in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta is fully set. The dessert should be firm to the touch but still jiggle slightly.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish: Once the panna cotta is set, garnish each cup with a fresh mint leaf. The mint not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dessert.
• Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, fruity flavors with a hint of freshness from the mint.

Additional Information:

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover panna cotta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cups covered with plastic wrap to prevent the dessert from absorbing any fridge odors.
• Freezing: Although panna cotta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. If freezing, place the panna cotta in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 4g

Tips for Success:

• Gelatin Blooming: Make sure to properly bloom the gelatin by soaking it in cold water. This step ensures that the gelatin will dissolve smoothly in the hot liquid, preventing any lumps.
• Smooth Blueberry Puree: Straining the blueberry mixture is crucial for a smooth texture. If you skip this step, you might end up with a grainy panna cotta.
• Balancing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in the blueberry mixture according to your taste. If your blueberries are very sweet, you may want to reduce the sugar slightly.
• Layering for Visual Appeal: If you want to create a layered effect, you can pour a portion of the panna cotta mixture into the cups, let it set slightly in the fridge, and then add another layer. This creates a beautiful visual contrast and an interesting texture.

Possible Questions & Answers:

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

• Yes, you can use frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

2. What can I use instead of gelatin?

• You can substitute gelatin with agar-agar if you prefer a vegetarian option. However, keep in mind that agar-agar sets more firmly and quickly than gelatin, so follow the package instructions for the correct amount.

3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Panna cotta is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, which makes it perfect for entertaining.

4. What other fruits can I use?

• You can substitute blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. Each will give the panna cotta a slightly different flavor and color.

5. Can I make a dairy-free version?

• Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts:

This blueberry and cream panna cotta is a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. It’s easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and offers a delightful combination of creamy and fruity flavors. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this panna cotta is a wonderful choice.