Paan Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Indian-Inspired Dessert

4 hours 20 minutes

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4.20 from 5 votes

About Paan Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Indian-Inspired Dessert

Indulge in the unexpected: Paan Panna Cotta, a captivating dessert where Italian elegance meets the aromatic allure of India. Imagine the creamy richness of classic panna cotta infused with the refreshing essence of betel leaf and a whisper of warming masala.
This vegetarian delight, crafted with cornstarch for a luxuriously smooth texture, is surprisingly simple to make. The vibrant paan flavor dances on the palate, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Perfect for any celebration or a quiet evening in, this unique dessert is guaranteed to impress.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook4 hours
Total4 hours 20 minutes
Calories263 kcal
Serves2
Served AsSnacks
Recipe TasteCrunchySweet

Ingredients
 

Panna Cotta Base

Paan Flavor

Garnish

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Instructions
 

  • In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
    Paan Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Indian-Inspired Dessert - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Add the caster sugar and stir until it's fully dissolved. Heating the mixture gently ensures the sugar dissolves completely and prevents scorching.
  • Meanwhile, finely grind the betel leaf, paan masala, and gulkand together. This creates a smooth paste that infuses the panna cotta with the distinct paan flavor.
    Paan Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Indian-Inspired Dessert - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Add the ground paan mixture to the simmering milk and cream. Stir well to combine.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This creates a slurry that will thicken the panna cotta.
    Paan Panna Cotta: A Refreshing Indian-Inspired Dessert - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Slowly drizzle the cornstarch slurry into the simmering panna cotta mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly. This usually takes a few minutes.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and let the panna cotta cool slightly.
  • Lightly grease individual molds or ramekins with a little oil. This will help with the unmolding process later.
  • Pour the panna cotta mixture into the prepared molds. Refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours, or until set. For quicker results, freeze for 2 hours.
  • Once set, gently demold the panna cotta onto serving plates. Garnish with saffron strands, colored fennel seeds, and sweet supari, if desired.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For a more intense paan flavor, blend the betel leaves with a splash of milk before straining and adding to the cream mixture; this releases more aromatic oils compared to simply infusing the leaves whole.
  • If you enjoy texture contrasts, sprinkle finely chopped candied fennel seeds or roasted coconut on top just before serving for an added crunch that complements the creamy pannacotta.
  • To create elegant single-serve portions, pour the mixture into small kulhad-style clay cups or silicone molds—unmold onto plates and garnish with gulkand and edible silver leaf (varak) for a festive Indian presentation.

Expert Tips

  • Adjust the sweetness of the pannacotta to your liking by adding more or less sugar to the cream mixture. Keep in mind that the gulkand garnish will also add sweetness.
  • If you cannot find fresh betel leaves, you can substitute with a high-quality paan extract or essence. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as these extracts can be potent.
  • For a visually appealing presentation, layer the pannacotta with a contrasting color, such as a bright mango puree or a vibrant raspberry coulis.

Storage Instructions

  • This dessert can be prepared up to 2 days ahead.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator.
  • Garnish with fresh toppings just before serving to maintain the crunch and color of the garnishes.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.20 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 263kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 5gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 6mgSugar: 56g

Neha Paliwal
Neha Paliwal
Articles: 87
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4.20 from 5 votes

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