Saffron Cardamom Panna Cotta
This saffron cardamom panna cotta is a rich and creamy fusion dessert, perfect for Diwali celebrations. Infused with fragrant saffron and cardamom, the smooth panna cotta is made with milk, cream, and a touch of vanilla, and is set using agar-agar for a vegetarian-friendly treat. It’s easy to make and can be garnished with chopped almonds or pistachios for added crunch. Best of all, it’s a make-ahead dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 142 g Milk ⅔ cup
- 0.5 g Saffron a pinch
- 4-5 pods Cardamom seeds only
- 85 g Sugar ⅓ cup + 1 tbsp
- 392 g Cream 1⅔ cups
- 10 g Agar-agar 1 tbsp
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- Chopped almonds or pistachio – optional for garnish
Instructions
- Take 1-2 tablespoons of milk from the 142ml and warm it up. Add the saffron and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the milk to take on that signature golden color.
- Using a mortar and pestle, crush 4-5 tablespoons of sugar along with the seeds from 4-5 cardamom pods. This releases the cardamom’s oils, giving the dessert a rich fragrance.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the remaining milk, the cream, the cardamom-sugar mixture, the saffron-infused milk, the rest of the sugar, and the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together and place the pan over medium heat.
- As the mixture heats up, slowly sprinkle in the agar-agar powder. Continue whisking until the mixture comes to a simmer, ensuring the agar-agar dissolves fully.
- Remove the mixture from heat and pour it through a fine sieve to catch any undissolved agar-agar or cardamom bits. Divide the mixture evenly between heat-proof ramekins.
- Allow the panna cotta to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring the ramekins to the fridge. Let them chill for 2-5 hours until fully set.
- When ready to serve, top each panna cotta with a sprinkle of chopped almonds or pistachios for an added crunch and a pop of colour.
Notes
Notes:
- For smooth texture ensure agar-agar is completely dissolved.
- Sieve the mixture for a silky finish.
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Panna cotta can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Panna cotta is best served chilled.