Matcha Green Tea Panna Cotta (with Agar Agar)

Based on popular demand, I have created a basic panna cotta recipe using agar agar, a vegetarian substitute for gelatin. Please note that agar agar and gelatin work differently.

While using gelatin, do not let your cream mix come to a boil. However, with agar agar it is important to bring your cream mix to a boil and then simmer for 2 – 3 minutes. This is how it gets activated to ensure the setting of your panna cotta.

This is a Japanese inspired flavour using matcha green tea powder. Omit the green tea and add in half a vanilla pod or two tablespoons of instant coffee powder for another flavour variation.

You may also want to try these variants of the Panna Cotta:

1. Earl Grey Panna Cotta

2. Vanilla Panna Cotta

What you need:

2 cups fresh cream (Amul fresh cream)

1 cup milk

1 tsp agar agar

4 tbsp water

1/2 cup sugar

5 tsp matcha green tea powder

½ a vanilla pod or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Putting it together:

Bloom the agar agar in a small bowl with the water for 10 mins

Heat the cream and milk mix and add the agar agar. Add sugar, vanilla and the green tea. Keep stirring till dissolved. Bring to a boil and then simmer

Take off heat and strain into glasses or ramekins. Allow to cool outside

Refrigerate for 2 hours till set

Garnish with berries, fresh fruits and mint leaves