This Matcha Panna Cotta is a delicate fusion of traditional Italian technique and Japanese flavors. The vibrant green hue of top-grade matcha pairs exquisitely with the creamy custard base, creating a dish that is both visually striking and elegantly refreshing. Crowned with a nutty black sesame crumble, it's an East-meets-West dessert that brings sophistication to any table.
½cupwhole milkdo not substitute with skim or low-fat for best texture
½cupgranulated sugarorganic cane sugar preferred
1 ½teaspoonsmatcha powderceremonial grade for best color and flavor
1packageunflavored gelatinabout 0.25 oz or 7g
3tablespoonscold waterfor blooming gelatin
For the Black Sesame Crumble:
¼cupblack sesame seedslightly toasted
¼cupall-purpose flour
2tablespoonsunsalted buttercold and diced
2tablespoonsbrown sugarpreferably dark muscovado for deeper flavor
Instructions
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. It should look thickened and soft.
In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat (about 160°F/70°C), stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat before it boils.
Sift the matcha into a small bowl and whisk with 2 tablespoons of warm milk mixture to form a smooth paste. Add this back into the saucepan and whisk thoroughly.
Add the softened gelatin to the warm mixture and stir until fully dissolved. Pass the entire mixture through a fine mesh sieve to ensure a silky consistency.
Pour the panna cotta mixture into lightly oiled silicone molds or ramekins. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2.5 hours or until fully set.
To prepare the black sesame crumble: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse black sesame, flour, butter, and brown sugar until crumbly.
Spread mixture on a baking tray and bake for 8–10 minutes or until crisp and golden. Let it cool completely before using.
To serve, unmold each panna cotta onto a dessert plate and sprinkle generously with the black sesame crumble. Garnish with a few mint leaves or edible flowers if desired.
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Notes
You can infuse additional flavor by steeping a vanilla bean pod in the cream mixture during heating.
For a vegan version, substitute the dairy components with full-fat coconut milk and cream, and use agar-agar in place of gelatin (adjust quantity per brand).