Chia panna cotta

Panna cotta (also spelled panna cotta or panacotta) is one of the most popular Italian desserts, created in the 20th century in the region known as Piedmont and quickly becoming a favorite treat among nobles and wealthy families. Its name literally translates as «cooked cream». In the early versions of this dessert, instead of gelatin, cooks used «isinglass», a substance extracted from the air bladders of sturgeon fish.

Adding chia seeds to panna cotta gives the dessert a thicker, creamier texture while significantly boosting its nutritional value. Chia contains vitamins B, K, and E, dietary fiber, omega fatty acids (primarily omega-3), as well as calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and other essential minerals. Regular consumption of chia seeds supports digestion, helps reduce levels of «bad» cholesterol, and positively affects the condition of the skin and hair. Chia is also considered one of the best natural energy sources, helping maintain overall vitality and a lasting sense of alertness.

CraftOil offers organic, certified chia seeds, harvested in clean, environmentally friendly regions and free from preservatives. They are ideal for making chia panna cotta, as well as many other dishes, and can also be used for pressing high-quality raw chia oil. To learn more about their benefits or place an order, simply submit a request on the website.

Ingredients

For the chia panna cotta:

• 250 g heavy cream (at least 33% fat);
• 250 g whole milk;
• 15 g gelatin;
• 1 packet vanilla;
• 4 tsp chia seeds;
• 100 g sugar;
• 30 g water;

For the berry jelly layer:

• 250 g berry juice (any flavor you like);
• 10 g gelatin;
• 30 g water;

Step-by-step instructions

Place 15 g of gelatin into a small bowl and add 30 g of water. Let it bloom for about 20 minutes. Pour 100 g of milk into a saucepan and add the softened gelatin. Stir well, then add sugar and vanilla.

Add the cream and rinsed chia seeds. Mix thoroughly. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly, and let it simmer gently for 15–17 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then pour it into serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for 1 hour until set.

Preparing the berry jelly.  Mix the gelatin with 30 g of water, then pour in the berry juice. Let the mixture bloom for 15–20 minutes.

Take the chilled panna cotta bases from the refrigerator and gently spoon the thickened berry mixture on top. Refrigerate again for at least 1 hour to fully set.

When serving, you may garnish the dessert with fresh mint leaves or confectionery sprinkles.

Notes:

You can top your chia panna cotta with sesame seeds or amaranth for additional flavor and texture. Adding almonds or hazelnuts is also a great idea — it makes the dessert more satisfying and nutritious. CraftOil offers an excellent selection of nuts and seeds, along with reliable, high-quality equipment for oil pressing.