May 22, 2014 Culinary A “canvas” dish is a recipe that serves as a base or “canvas” on which the chef can create his or her own masterpiece of flavor. Here, Crystal Bridges’ Director of Culinary Services Case Dighero offers up a terrific canvas panna cotta, along with some ideas for turning it into a flavorful creation that suits your personal taste! Canvas Panna Cotta 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 1. Soften gelatin in 1 tbsp. cold water in a medium bowl for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, combine cream and sugar in a small saucepan. Scrape seeds from vanilla pod into the pan, then add the pod. Heat cream over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, 3–5 minutes, then stir into the bowl with the gelatin. Stir in buttermilk, along with any desired additional ingredients (see below), 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. Chocolate 2 oz semisweet chocolate Pinch salt Espresso 3 t instant espresso powder 1 oz semisweet chocolate Mint 1/2 t peppermint extract 1/4 c fresh mint (strain after simmering) 2 drops green food coloring Vanilla 1 t vanilla extract
