DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, combine the water and gelatin and let soak about 10 minutes (do not stir). Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat the half and half, vanilla bean and sugar to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. As soon as it simmers, turn off the heat and add the gelatin mixture, stirring to dissolve the gelatin. If the gelatin doesn’t completely dissolve in 3 minutes, return the mixture to the heat and warm gently until dissolved. Pour the mixture into 6 to 8 ramekins or Desserts cups. Chill, uncovered, 2 hours.

To serve panna cotta, dip the cups in hot water, then turn the panna cottas out onto Desserts plates (or, serve in the cups). Surround each panna cotta with berries and drizzle with chocolate sauce.