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Tomato Panna Cotta: A Surprising Savory Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert Recipe

4.5 from 82 reviews

Tomato Panna Cotta is a unique and innovative twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining creamy heavy cream with tangy tomato puree. This dessert balances savory and sweet flavors with a smooth, wobbly texture, making it a delightful and unexpected treat garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Panna Cotta

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup tomato puree
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp gelatin powder
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • Salt, to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the gelatin to absorb water and soften, a process known as flowering.
  2. Heat Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, tomato puree, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is close to simmering but not boiling.
  3. Incorporate Gelatin: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it completely dissolves into the cream and tomato mixture. Season with salt to taste and mix well.
  4. Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the panna cotta has fully set and has a smooth, wobbly texture.
  5. Serve: Just before serving, garnish each panna cotta with fresh basil leaves for a fresh and aromatic finishing touch.

Notes

  • Do not boil the cream mixture to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
  • Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid any grainy texture in the panna cotta.
  • Use fresh, high-quality tomato puree for the best flavor balance between savory and sweet.
  • For easier unmolding, lightly oil the molds or use silicone molds.
  • The panna cotta can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.

Keywords: Tomato Panna Cotta, savory panna cotta, Italian dessert, tomato dessert, gelatin dessert, creamy panna cotta