Tea Panna Cotta

Decadent and diet friendly, that’s how I would describe this sweet treat.  I found this recipe in a magazine and I never thought this yummy looking dessert can be slimming.  Why?  Because it’s infused with oolong tea, a brew that contains high concentration of slenderizing antioxidants.  Apparently, these antioxidants also offer protection against heart disease, premature aging, tooth decay and the many types of cancer.  I also love oolong’s floral flavor.  It’s just perfect for desserts!

For this treat you will need:

1)  In a small saucepan, bring 3/4 cup water to a boil.  Remove from heat.  Add 3 oolong tea bags; cover and let steep 3 minutes.  Discard bags.

2)  In small bowl, sprinkle 1 envelope unflavored gelatin over 1 1/2 cups fat-free half-and-half; let gelatin sit 1 minute, or until softened.

3)  Meanwhile, in same saucepan over high heat, bring brewed tea and 1/3 cup granulated sugar to a boil, whisking until sugar is dissloved.  Remove from heat.

4)  Whisk in gelatin mixture and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until gelatin mixture dissolves.

5)  Strain tea mixture and divide evenly among six 6 oz. ramekins.  Chill 8 hours, or until firm.  Serve on plates drizzled with sugar-free chocolate syrup.

Yeilds 6 servings.

Prep time:  5 minutes  Total time:  10 minutes, plus chilling time.