Wild Blueberry Panna Cotta: A Creamy, Healthful Delight

Indulging in a dessert that is both delectable and nutritious is a rare treat, and wild blueberry panna cotta fits this description perfectly. This luxurious dessert combines the rich, creamy texture of panna cotta with the vibrant flavor and health benefits of wild blueberries, creating a dish that is as pleasing to the palate as it is beneficial to the body.

Panna cotta, an Italian dessert known for its silky smooth texture, is made by simmering together cream, milk, and sugar, then setting the mixture with gelatin. In this recipe, the addition of wild blueberries not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile. Wild blueberries are celebrated for their intense flavor and deep blue color, both of which stem from their high concentration of antioxidants.

Wild blueberries are small but mighty when it comes to health benefits. They are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give the berries their vibrant hue. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Additionally, wild blueberries are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese, all of which contribute to overall health and well-being.

To prepare this wild blueberry panna cotta, start by making a blueberry puree. Fresh or frozen wild blueberries are cooked down with a splash of lemon juice until they release their juices and break down. This mixture is then pureed to a smooth consistency, creating a vibrant, flavorful base for the panna cotta. The lemon juice not only enhances the natural sweetness of the blueberries but also provides a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream.

The panna cotta base itself is a simple mixture of heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar, heated just enough to dissolve the sugar and infuse the cream with a touch of vanilla. This warm mixture is then combined with the blueberry puree and bloomed gelatin, which helps the panna cotta set into its signature creamy texture. The result is a dessert that is rich and indulgent, yet light and refreshing, with the blueberries adding a fruity twist that makes each bite a delight.

Setting the panna cotta in individual ramekins or serving glasses not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows for easy serving. Once chilled, the panna cotta becomes a perfect canvas for additional garnishes. A few fresh wild blueberries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of elegance to this already stunning dessert.

This wild blueberry panna cotta is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. By incorporating wild blueberries, you are not only elevating the flavor of a classic dessert but also reaping the numerous health benefits these little berries have to offer. Whether you are looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a delicious dessert, this wild blueberry panna cotta is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy richness and fruity brightness, all while knowing you are indulging in a dessert that is as good for you as it is delicious.

A very generous thank you to  Canadian Wild Blueberries for sponsoring this recipe. It is an honour to work with brands that align with our values and make it possible for us to share these recipes with you.

Wild Blueberry Panna Cotta Recipe

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• Author: The Kilted Chef
• Yield: Serves 4

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Ingredients

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Wild Blueberry Panna Cotta Recipe

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 tsp powdered gelatin
• 3 tbsp cold water
• 1 cup wild blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

 

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Blueberry Mixture:
2. In a small saucepan, combine the wild blueberries and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the blueberry mixture until smooth. If desired, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the skins for a smoother texture. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Gelatin:
5. In a small bowl, sprinkle the powdered gelatin over the cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
6. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
7. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and the prepared blueberry puree.
9. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot cream mixture and whisk until completely dissolved.
10. Set the Panna Cotta:
11. Pour the mixture into six ramekins or serving glasses. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
12. Serve:
13. Once the panna cotta is set, you can garnish each serving with a few fresh blueberries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

 

 

• Category: desserts, recipes