Chocolate Panna Cotta

Serves 4-6 people

• 7 sheets gelatin

• Ice water

• 1 ½ cups milk

• 3 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 vanilla bean, cleaned well

• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

1. Allow sheets of gelatin to sit in ice water for about 2 minutes, until very soft and spongy. Squeeze out as much water as possible.

2. Add milk, cream, sugar, vanilla bean, and chocolate to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer, continually stirring until all ingredients are combined well and chocolate has entirely melted. Remove liquid from the heat. Squeeze gelatin VERY WELL and stir into liquid. Pour mixture into desired vessel (container, cups, molds, and so on).

3. Serve with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or toasted nuts!