Japanese Black Sesame Panna Cotta with Matcha Sauce
Delight in the creamy smoothness of panna cotta infused with nutty black sesame, perfectly complemented by a vibrant matcha sauce. An exquisite fusion of flavors in every bite.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Black Sesame Panna Cotta
- 1
Heat cream and sesame
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, ground black sesame seeds, and sugar. Gently heat over medium-low until the sugar dissolves.
Tip: Do not boil the cream mixture to prevent curdling.
- 2
Add vanilla and cool
Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and let it slightly cool.
- 3
Bloom the gelatin
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Allow it to bloom for 5 minutes.
- 4
Incorporate gelatin
Stir the bloomed gelatin into the warm sesame cream mixture until fully dissolved.
- 5
Set the panna cotta
Pour the mixture into serving molds. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
Tip: For a smoother panna cotta, strain the sesame mixture before pouring it into molds.
Preparing the Matcha Sauce
- 1
Heat milk and sugar
In another saucepan, whisk together milk and sugar. Gently heat until the sugar is dissolved.
- 2
Whisk in matcha
Whisk in the matcha powder until smooth.
- 3
Thicken with slurry
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- 4
Cool the sauce
Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
How to Make Japanese Black Sesame Panna Cotta with Matcha Sauce
Total time: 4 h 40 min · Yields 6 servings
- 1
Black Sesame Infusion
Gently heat cream with sesame and sugar without boiling.
- 2
Gelatin Integration
Stir bloomed gelatin thoroughly until completely dissolved.
- 3
Matcha Thickening
Ensure matcha sauce thickens to a pourable consistency.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the panna cotta can be made a day ahead, but add the matcha sauce right before serving.
Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
Yes, substitute with half the amount of agar-agar and allow more setting time.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute dairy with coconut milk and heavy cream, and replace gelatin with agar-agar.
Is there a gluten-free alternative?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure the matcha powder is certified gluten-free.
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