Vanilla Panna Cotta with Pomegranate Arils and Drizzled Honey

I love pretty desserts.  And this one has to be one of the prettiest I've made in quite some time.  I found the recipe on an interesting blog, Tribeca Yummy Mummy.  Cate has taken it upon herself to share her chef experience with the pre-K set (and their respective maternal units).  She highlights the parts of her recipes that can be done by or with the little ones.  Her recipes give youngsters exposure to foods beyond PB&J, while still intriguing the "Where-did-I-leave-my-keys-again??" population.  And this panna cotta is a great representation of her recipes

I have never made panna cotta before.  I couldn't believe how quickly this came together.  I think it took all of 10 minutes between deciding to make this and getting the full ramekins into the fridge.  I had Stoneybridge Greek yogurt (a wonderful yogurt if you haven't yet tried it) available and used that.  The resulting dessert is creamy, flavorful, and beautiful to behold.  This is definitely going into my permanent repertoire!  Thanks, Cate!


Vanilla Panna Cotta with Pomegranate Arils and Drizzled Honey

2 tablespoons water
1-1/2 teaspoons gelatin
2 cups heavy cream
1-3/4 cups yogurt, whole milk preferably
pinch of salt
1/3 cup honey, or more to taste (plus additional for drizzling
2 t. vanilla
the arils (seeds) of one fresh pomegranate

Measure the water into a small liquid measuring cup. Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and set it aside for the time being.

While the water sets, whisk together the yogurt, pinch of salt, honey, vanilla, and orange flower water together in a large bowl (a pouring lip is helpful for this recipe) is or very large liquid measure. Set this aside, too.

Pour the cream into a medium saucepan.

Bring the cream to a boil over medium heat, whisking a bit. As soon as the cream comes to a boil, remove it from the heat.

Pour the gelatin mixture into the cream and whisk them together well for a full minute to make certain that they are properly combined. Pour the cream mixture into the yogurt mixture.

Whisk the two mixtures together.

Pour the panna cotta into little sake cups or ramekins. Let the cups cool to room temperature. Place the little cups onto a rimmed baking sheet or tray. Cover the whole business with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours or overnight.

When you are ready to serve your panna cotta, take them out of the fridge, sprinkle them with the pomegranate arils and drizzle on a bit more honey.


Source:  http://tribecayummymummy-cate.blogspot.com/