Blood Orange and Basil Panna Cotta with Citrus Crumble
A sophisticated panna cotta infused with blood orange zest and basil, paired with a crunchy citrus crumble for texture and flavor contrast, served elegantly as a dessert.
- Total
- 13 hr 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Adventurous
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
4 servings
For the Blood Orange and Basil Panna Cotta
- 200 milliliters blood orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 teaspoon blood orange zest, finely grated
- 8 large fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
- 75 grams granulated sugar, adjust based on sweetness preference
- 6 grams gelatine leaves, pre-soaked in cold water until softened
- 300 milliliters double cream, at room temperature
- 100 milliliters milk, at room temperature
For the Citrus Crumble
- 100 grams plain flour, sifted
- 70 grams butter, cold and diced
- 50 grams brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon mixed citrus zest (lemon, lime), finely grated
- a pinch sea salt
- Prep
- 40 min
- Marinate
- 4 hr
- Cook
- 35 min
- Rest
- 30 min
About this recipe
Inspired by the vibrant and aromatic citrus desserts of Mediterranean cuisine, this Blood Orange and Basil Panna Cotta combines rich flavours with a delicate, silky texture. It celebrates seasonal ingredients, reminiscent of summer evenings in Italy, where blood oranges are plentiful. The contrast of the panna cotta's creaminess with the crunchy citrus crumble reflects a play on textures similar to dishes created by renowned chefs such as Massimo Bottura. This dish also emphasizes the aromatic enhancement of basil, often overlooked in desserts, allowing it to shine alongside the bright notes of the blood orange. It is an extravagant take on panna cotta that is sure to impress diners.
Method
-
Step 1: Prepare the Panna Cotta Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the blood orange juice, blood orange zest, sugar, and basil leaves. Heat over low-medium heat until the sugar dissolves entirely, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the basil leaves. Return the strained juice to the saucepan.
Avoid boiling the mixture as it may affect the gelatine setting. -
Step 2: Incorporate Gelatine and Dairy
Place the softened gelatine leaves in the warm blood orange mixture and stir until fully dissolved. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the double cream and milk until combined. Gradually fold the blood orange mixture into the cream mixture using a spatula. Ensure everything is well mixed but keep it airy.
Make sure the gelatine is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in your panna cotta. -
Step 3: Set the Panna Cotta
Pour the panna cotta mixture into serving glasses or ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set completely.
Ensure your glasses are properly sealed during cooling to avoid contamination. -
Step 4: Prepare the Citrus Crumble
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, diced cold butter, brown sugar, mixed citrus zest, and a pinch of sea salt. Using your fingers, rub the mixture together until it resembles coarse bread crumbs.
Ensure the butter remains cold while mixing for optimal texture. -
Step 5: Bake the Crumble
Spread the crumble mixture evenly over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown, stirring halfway through for even baking. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before using.
Monitor closely to prevent over-browning; the crumble should be lightly golden. -
Step 6: Serve the Panna Cotta
Once the panna cotta is fully set, carefully remove from the fridge. To serve, sprinkle a generous amount of the citrus crumble on top of each panna cotta. Optionally, garnish with additional blood orange zest and a small basil leaf for presentation.
If using glass ramekins, warm the sides slightly to help release the panna cotta if needed.
Tips
- For a more intense flavour, infuse the cream with basil leaves for 30 minutes prior to mixing it with the blood orange mixture.
- Substitute blood orange with other citrus fruits like cara cara or navel oranges, altering the zest for diverse flavour profiles.
- This panna cotta can be prepared a day in advance, allowing flavours to develop even more.
- Switch the crumble for an almond or hazelnut crumble for an added nutty flavor and texture.
Equipment
- Digital kitchen scale
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine sieve
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Dessert glasses or ramekins
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Serve it with
Goes well with
-
Lemon Tart
The tartness of lemon complements the sweet and creamy panna cotta, creating a refreshing end to the meal.
-
Chocolate Fondant
The rich chocolate flavor provides a decadent contrast to the light panna cotta.
Drinks
-
Prosecco
Its sparkling nature and crisp notes balance the rich panna cotta beautifully, adding a celebratory touch.
-
Iced Green Tea
A refreshing, light non-alcoholic pairing that cleanses the palate between tastes.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
