Strawberry Vodka Coulis + Creamy Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

As I am kicking my heels off, feeling really exhausted after a long day; the thought of just plopping myself down on the couch, sipping a glass of Strawberry Daiquiri, made with vodka and catching some shut eye sounded very much like heaven. Then all this reading and talks about cocktails over at The Boys' Club since their blog officially launched got me thirsty. Instead, of a drink, I suddenly was left craving for something creamy and satisfying, with minimal cleaning up, fresh, and easy to make. Join me and party this weekend with delicious STRAWBERRY VODKA COULIS topped with more fresh Strawberries over a light creamy VANILLA BEAN PANNA COTTA. A versatile recipe. If you could dream it, you will be able to make it.

If strawberries are no longer in season, frozen berries will do, or replace them with Peaches or Apricots. May not be a coulis but a thick jam or sauce definitely compliments this creamy melt in the mouth panna cotta. This treat could be served on a plate by sliding the panna cotta out of the glass or just serve it straight up in a glass. No worries about spilling over and still classy.

I think strawberries, vodka, vanilla and cream signifies a perfect couples treat or even a girls night in, sitting in front of a TV watching some chick flicks clad in PJs. What I love about it is that amongst those cliche treats, Panna Cotta served with Coulis sounds rather sophisticated and sexy too. Not only it's easy on the pocket, without having you to break a piggy bank to impress; and it sure is indulgent. Now isn't that's a great way to start the weekend?

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Strawberry Vodka Coulis & Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
by Chic & Gorgeous Treats

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*Makes 4-6 individual shot glasses
*Vodka can be omitted, for child friendly treat..
*If you worry there are lumps form, sieve the panna cotta mixture.
*Panna Cotta can be made a day in advanced, but needs to be covered tight with a cling film
wrap.
*Drizzle coulis and top with fresh strawberries when you are ready to serve.
*Serve immediately.

   ^INGREDIENTS

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta 2 teaspoons gelatin powder 1/4 cup caster sugar 2/3 cups milk 1 1/4 cup heavy cream 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste Strawberry Vodka Coulis 125g fresh strawberry and extra for garnish 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3 teaspoons lemon zest 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons caster sugar 1 cup water 1-2 tablespoons Vodka (optional) 1/4  teaspoon Red food colouring

DIRECTIONS 1. In a small medium saucepan, sprinkle gelatin and sugar over combined milk and cream. Stir over low heat, without boiling until the gelatin and sugar dissolve. 2. Add in the vanilla bean paste. Strain into a jug, let it cool slightly to room temperature before pouring them into prepared glass. Pour about 2/3 full. 3. Chill for 3-4 hours or until panna cotta is set. 4. Meanwhile, in another medium deep saucepan over medium heat, prepare sugar syrup by adding sugar and water together. Let it boil for a couple of minutes or until sugar has completely dissolved. Add fresh strawberries and lemon juice, and cook for about 5 minutes or until strawberries starts to turn mushy. Turn heat down to low and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. Take strawberry syrup off the heat, let it cool slightly then transfer to a blender. 5. Blend the strawberries along with 2/3 cups of the syrup. Press blended strawberries through a sieve to remove seeds. Stir in vodka, and feel free to add extra sugar syrup, vodka or lemon juice according to taste. To serve, drizzle or ladle coulis over panna cotta, top with additional diced strawberries. ENJOY!

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Have a happy weekend y'all. 

xx