Super Berry Lavender Panna cotta- Vegan
Desserts are the most addictive class of foods, because of usual high content of sugars and fat. When we find ways to make a healthy dessert that is rich in antioxidants, natural sugars, and is delicious plus super captivating, the satisfaction is priceless. A perfect spring- summer dessert that you can enjoy to your heart’s content, is so simple to make.
Traditional panna cotta is Italian dessert made with cream, sugar, gelatin. This berry lavender panna cotta is plant based rich in a mix of berries and with a hint of lavender, will be super fancy to indulge in. Blackberries are the predominant berries I used, because they are abundant this time of the year and they have low glycemic index (how fast it lets your glucose rise) as well as glycemic load (how much glucose is present in typical serving). A mix of berries increases the plant diversity in this dessert, while bringing in loads of cancer fighting and anti inflammatory properties.
Actual cook time is < 20 min, but you need to be patient for the panna cotta to settle in the fridge for 3-4 hours.
Super Berry Lavender Panna cotta
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup black berries
- 6 strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 fresh lime squeezed
- 1/2 cup cashews soaked in hot water
- 3 cups plant based milk I used oat milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup optional for people with sweet tooth
- 1.5 tsp agar agar powder
- 1/2 tsp dry lavender flowers
- pinch of salt
Garnish- optional
- sliced almonds
- fresh berries
Instructions
- Soak cashews in HOT water just to submerge them for about 15 min.
- Heat about 1/2 cup water. Once hot, add the lavender dry flowers to it. Do not overdo the lavender, as it adds a bitter tartness, if too much. Let the water come to boil. Strain and have the lavender infused water ready.
- In a blender, add all the berries, cashews along with soaked water, plant based milk , pinch of salt, agar agar powder and blend into a smooth mixture
- To a deep heavy pan add the blended mixture and on medium heat let it come close to boil, about 7-8 min. Keep mixing during this time.
- Add the lavender infused water about 1/4 cup. Also add a bit of fresh lime juice. At this stage, add maple syrup if you want, depending on the sweetness of your berries and your preference. Mix it well.
- Turn off the stove. Let the mixture cool down for 15min before pouring in containers or molds of your choice.
- Put them in fridge for 3-4 hours, when the panna cotta sets in.
- Serve chilled with almonds and fresh berries on top. The color is captivating, so is the aroma and the taste.