Star Anise and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, star anise, and vanilla bean seeds and pod.

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is steaming (but not boiling).

Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes.

Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.

In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.

Reheat the cream mixture until steaming, then remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.

Divide the mixture among 4 ramekins or small bowls.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or until set.

To serve, run a knife along the edges of the ramekins and invert onto plates.