Description

Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a creamy, tropical dessert that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and pandan extract with a smooth, delicate texture. Setting with agar-agar powder instead of gelatin, this dairy and plant-based fusion dessert offers a refreshing and subtly sweet treat perfect for warm days or elegant gatherings.

Ingredients

Liquid Base

2 cups coconut milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup water

Flavorings and Sweeteners

1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons pandan extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Setting Agent

2 teaspoons agar-agar powder

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Instructions

Heat the Dairy and Coconut Milk: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
Bloom the Agar-Agar: In a separate bowl, mix the agar-agar powder with water and allow it to bloom for 5 minutes. This step hydrates the agar-agar so it can dissolve properly.
Incorporate Agar-Agar Mixture: Add the bloomed agar-agar mixture to the warm coconut cream mixture in the saucepan. Increase the heat and bring the whole mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to ensure the agar-agar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens.
Add Pandan Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pandan extract thoroughly, distributing its fragrant flavor evenly throughout the mixture.
Set the Panna Cotta: Pour the combined mixture into serving molds. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set and chilled, allowing the panna cotta to achieve its firm yet silky texture.

Notes

Agar-agar sets more firmly than gelatin and is a vegetarian substitute derived from seaweed.
Ensure the mixture reaches boiling point after adding agar-agar to activate its gelling properties.
Pandan extract can be adjusted for a more or less intense flavor depending on preference.
For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with more coconut milk or a lighter cream alternative.
Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh fruit or toasted coconut flakes for added texture.