Strawberry Panna Gelata

Strawberry Panna Gelata Recipe - A Delicious Italian Dessert

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Strawberry Panna Gelata is a delicious and refreshing frozen dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. This creamy treat is made with fresh California strawberries and a cooked cream base, resulting in a smooth and luscious texture.

History

Panna Gelata is a traditional Italian dessert that dates back to the 16th century. Originally made with just cream, sugar, and fruit, this frozen treat has evolved over the years to include a variety of flavors and ingredients. The addition of strawberries to the recipe adds a sweet and tangy twist to this classic dessert.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of milk
0.5 cups of whipping cream
1.5 tbsp of sugar
1.5 tsp of light corn syrup
2 pt (946 ml) baskets of very ripe California strawberries, stemmed
3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp of light corn syrup
sugar (about 1 cup)

How to prepare

To make cooked cream: In a heavy, 2 qt (1.89 liter) stainless steel saucepan, boil the milk, cream, 1.5 tbsp sugar, and corn syrup over medium-high heat for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mixture coats a spoon.
Do not allow the mixture to burn or change color.
Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Meanwhile, puree the strawberries using an electric blender or food processor.
Stir in the lemon juice and 2 tbsp corn syrup.
Gradually mix in sugar, adding up to 1 cup depending on the flavor of strawberries.
Stir the strawberry mixture into the cooled cream mixture.
Pour the mixture into the container of an ice cream freezer and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Transfer to a freezer container, cover, and let it ripen in the freezer for up to 4 hours.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as raspberries or peaches in place of strawberries for a unique flavor twist.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberry puree for a tangy kick.
Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use very ripe strawberries for the best flavor in this recipe.

- Make sure to cook the cream mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it coats the back of a spoon.

- Allow the cream mixture to cool completely before adding the strawberry puree to ensure a smooth texture.

- Taste the strawberry mixture before adding sugar, as the sweetness of the strawberries may vary.

- Let the Panna Gelata ripen in the freezer for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Strawberry Panna Gelata in chilled bowls or glasses, garnished with fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a smooth and creamy Panna Gelata is to cook the cream mixture until it coats the back of a spoon. This will ensure a rich and velvety texture in the final dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have light corn syrup on hand, you can substitute with honey or agave nectar in this recipe. You can also use coconut milk in place of dairy milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cream mixture and strawberry puree ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to churn the Panna Gelata. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the dessert.

Presentation Ideas

For a fancy presentation, layer the Panna Gelata with fresh berries in a glass parfait dish. You can also drizzle a berry coulis or chocolate sauce over the top for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Strawberry Panna Gelata pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion dessert. You can also serve it with a cup of hot espresso for a delightful contrast of temperatures.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Panna Gelata in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Strawberry Panna Gelata contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Strawberry Panna Gelata contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Strawberry Panna Gelata contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Strawberry Panna Gelata contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Strawberry Panna Gelata is a good source of Vitamin C, thanks to the fresh strawberries used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk and cream) and corn syrup, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Strawberry Panna Gelata is a creamy and indulgent dessert that is relatively low in protein but higher in carbohydrates and fats. It is a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Strawberry Panna Gelata is a delightful frozen dessert that is perfect for showcasing the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries. With a creamy texture and luscious taste, this treat is sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a sunny afternoon in the countryside, and I had just finished picking a basket full of ripe, juicy strawberries from my garden. As I sat on my porch, gazing at the serene beauty of nature around me, I felt a sudden inspiration to create something special with these delicious berries.

I remembered a dear friend who had shared with me a recipe for a traditional Italian dessert called Strawberry Panna Gelata. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. The thought of making this sweet treat filled me with excitement and anticipation.

I rushed to my kitchen, gathered all the necessary ingredients, and began to prepare the Strawberry Panna Gelata. The process was simple yet intricate, requiring precision and patience. As I mixed the fresh strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, the aroma that filled the air was intoxicating.

I carefully whipped the cream until it formed soft peaks, then gently folded it into the strawberry mixture. The vibrant red and white colors swirled together, creating a mesmerizing pattern. I poured the mixture into individual ramekins and placed them in the freezer to set.

As I waited for the Strawberry Panna Gelata to freeze, I reflected on the countless recipes I had learned over the years. Each one had a story behind it, a special memory attached to it. Whether it was my mother's famous apple pie or my aunt's secret recipe for lasagna, each dish held a piece of my heart.

When the Strawberry Panna Gelata was finally ready, I scooped a spoonful into my mouth and closed my eyes in bliss. The sweet, tangy flavor of the strawberries combined with the creamy richness of the whipped cream was a taste of heaven. I knew instantly that this recipe would become a favorite in my family for years to come.

I shared the Strawberry Panna Gelata with my loved ones, and their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bite. The dessert was a hit, and everyone begged me to make it again soon. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had created something so delicious and memorable.

Over the years, I have made the Strawberry Panna Gelata countless times, each batch better than the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a touch of vanilla or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra flavor. But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe remains my favorite.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that sunny afternoon and the joy of discovering the Strawberry Panna Gelata recipe, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the love and generosity of friends who share their recipes with me, gratitude for the abundance of nature that provides me with fresh ingredients, and gratitude for the simple pleasure of creating something delicious to share with those I hold dear.

I may have learned to make this recipe from a friend, but it has become a part of me, a piece of my culinary journey that I will always treasure. And as I continue to cook and bake for my family and friends, I know that each dish I create carries with it a story, a memory, and a whole lot of love.