Pandan Panna Cotta

If I were asked to name a dessert recipe that has managed to combine the international appeal of Italian desserts with an exotic Asian twist, my answer would be a compelling ‘Pandan Panna Cotta’. When crafting this recipe, I found myself humming a sacred tune from the theatres of familial gatherings and whispering of tradition, that has been passed down generations. Each simple ingredient has its story – a tale to share, and as they unite, they create not just a dish, but an experience.

Pandan Panna Cotta: A Fusion of Flavors

On a culinary level, there is always room for experimentation – I firmly believe that. The Pandan Panna Cotta is a testament to this belief. The silky touch of panna cotta, an Italian dessert that means ‘cooked cream’, seamlessly combines with the pandan, a tropical plant with a sweet, unique aroma and flavor that is quintessential to many Southeast Asian cuisines. The result? A dessert that can hold its own alongside many Irish comfort foods or New England seafood dishes at your next gathering.

Pandan has also been dubbed as the ‘Asian Vanilla’ in the culinary world. But, despite this, I would hasten to claim that it has a flavor that’s unique, and challenging to compare directly. For those new to this taste, a Pandan Panna Cotta could be their perfect initiation.

The Health Love that Pandan Brings

Health and desserts don’t usually go hand in hand, but that’s not entirely accurate with our Pandan Panna Cotta. We all know that everything should be had in moderation, of course, but when it comes to comparing, you’ll find that pandan is a superstar. It has been used in traditional medicine for years, and modern studies have shown that indeed, pandan has properties that assist in managing blood pressure and even controlling blood sugar levels. Healthline paints a better picture of the nutritional benefits of this unassuming plant from the tropics. Who knew we could have our cream and enjoy it too!

I often find myself serving this delightful fruity dessert after a hearty meal of my New England lobster roll or individual Shepherds’ pies. Laura and I agree; it lends a bright and refreshing finish to those recipes. Our little boy, not quite ready for such treats, watches with curiosity and perhaps, a hint of longing. There’s a sense of mindfulness around a bowl of this dessert as it transports us straights to the tropical forests where the pandan grows.

Try this deliciously different, beautiful dessert, and you’ll be as hooked as I am to its global collaboration of tastes. Pandan Panna Cotta – a little piece of culinary artistry in a bowl.

What You’ll Need