Buttermilk Panna Cotta . . .

SERVES 6

Ingredients:

1 1/2 tsp. unflavored gelatin


1 1/4 cups heavy cream


7 tbsp. sugar


1/2 vanilla pod, split lengthwise


1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Soften gelatin in 1 tbsp. cold water in a medium bowl for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, put cream and sugar into a small saucepan. Scrape seeds from vanilla pod into pan, then add pod. Heat cream over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, 3–5 minutes, then stir into bowl with gelatin.

Stir in buttermilk, then strain into another bowl.

2. Divide custard between six 8-oz. ramekins and refrigerate until set, about 3 hours. To unmold, dip ramekins into a dish of hot water, then invert custards  onto plates. Garnish with raspberries or other fruit, if you like.