Chocolate Panna Cotta

Chocolate panna cotta is a delicious variation of the classic Italian dessert. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

• 500 ml of fresh cream
• 100 g of sugar
• 100 g of dark chocolate
• 3 sheets of gelatin (or 6 g of gelatin powder)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

Preparation

1. Begin by softening the gelatin in cold water if you’re using sheets, or hydrate it according to the manufacturer’s instructions if using powder.
2. Break the dark chocolate into pieces and melt it in a double boiler or microwave, being careful not to burn it.
3. In a saucepan, heat the cream with the sugar until it nearly comes to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. If you want to add extra flavor, you can include the vanilla extract at this stage.
4. Remove the cream from heat and incorporate the melted chocolate, mixing well until the mixture is homogeneous.
5. Squeeze out the gelatin to remove excess water and add it to the hot cream and chocolate mixture, stirring until completely dissolved.
6. Pour the mixture into small cups or molds of your choice and let cool to room temperature.
7. Place the panna cottas in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until they have set.
8. When ready to serve, you can accompany the chocolate panna cotta with a chocolate sauce, fresh fruit, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Curiosity

Panna cotta, which literally means “cooked cream” in Italian, is a spoon dessert typical of the culinary tradition of Piedmont, but now spread and appreciated throughout Italy and the world. The chocolate version adds a touch of taste and richness to a dessert that is delicious in itself.