Buttermilk Panna Cotta

1 . Stage

Mix the gelatin with water: Mix the gelatin with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and set aside.

2 . Stage

Make the panna cotta base: Put the cream, sugar, and vanilla bean seeds and pod (or vanilla extract if using) into a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar has dissolved remove from heat and add the gelatin to the warm cream mixture. Stir until the gelatin has dissolved.

3 . Stage

Add the buttermilk: Once the cream has cooled to room temperature, add the buttermilk and stir. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to catch any bits of undissolved gelatin.

4 . Stage

Chill: Pour the mixture into ramekins, about 1/2 cup per ramekin (the pudding is very rich). Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and chill to set for at least four hours. Serve with your favorite jam, jelly, marmalade, fruit, or straight up.