Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce Recipe

As a food enthusiast with a penchant for experimenting with flavors, I have had the privilege of trying several dessert recipes. Yet, the Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce stands out as a unique blend of tropical flavors and creamy texture that is simply irresistible. This dessert has become a family favorite, gracing our table on numerous occasions. The rich coconut base, combined with the vibrant, sweet-tart mango sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Even those who typically shy away from panna cotta find themselves enchanted by its silky smooth texture and the delightful contrast of flavors.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Coconut Panna Cotta:
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons gelatin powder
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
• For the Mango Sauce:
  • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Instructions

Creating this elegant dessert is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to make your Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce:

1. Prepare the Panna Cotta: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
2. In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot mixture, stirring until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into serving glasses or molds. Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
6. Make the Mango Sauce: In a blender, combine the chopped mangoes, sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
7. Pour the mango sauce over the set panna cotta just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe makes 4 servings. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories. Of course, the exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

Preparing Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce is a straightforward process. The total preparation time is around 30 minutes, with an additional 4 hours needed for the panna cotta to chill and set. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or family gatherings.

How to Serve

Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dessert:

• Serve in elegant dessert glasses for a sophisticated presentation.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and freshness.
• Top with shredded coconut for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Serve with a side of sliced fresh mangoes for a double dose of mango goodness.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to help you perfect your Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce:

• Use high-quality coconut milk for the best flavor and texture.
• Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the panna cotta.
• Chill the panna cotta thoroughly to ensure it sets properly.
• Adjust the sweetness of the mango sauce according to your taste preference.
• Experiment with different molds to create interesting shapes and presentations.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?

A: Yes, you can substitute agar-agar for gelatin if you prefer a vegetarian option. Use agar-agar powder and follow the package instructions for setting panna cotta.

Q: Can I prepare the panna cotta in advance?

A: Absolutely! The panna cotta can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until serving time.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh mangoes?

A: If fresh mangoes aren’t available, you can use frozen mango chunks or even canned mango puree. Just adjust the sugar levels to taste.

Q: How can I make the panna cotta firmer?

A: If you prefer a firmer panna cotta, you can increase the amount of gelatin used. Experiment by adding an extra teaspoon and see if the texture meets your preference.

Q: Can I add other fruits to the sauce?

A: Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other tropical fruits like passion fruit or pineapple to complement the mango sauce.