An excellent alternative for vegans and the lactose intolerant!
2019 CHRISTMAS REVIEW
A staple on Italian tables, panettone is undoubtedly one of the main symbols of Christmas. Among the endless variations, the pistachio panettone is a must, and navigating through the countless supermarket and artisanal options is no easy task.
The company "Sciara - La Terra del Pistacchio", in addition to their "classic" pistachio panettone, has decided to offer an interesting alternative designed for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan lifestyle, by proposing a 100% plant-based pistachio panettone named "Oro".
This Sciara offering, which comes in an elegant black box, consists of a simple panettone, without raisins or candied fruit, covered in dark chocolate, and accompanied by a jar of "Oro" pistachio cream (100% plant-based) produced by the same company.
The dough is very good, especially considering the use of only plant-based ingredients, with a characteristic taste that, while it deviates significantly from a true panettone, is definitely enjoyable. In terms of both texture and dough flavor, it is more accurately a generic "leavened baked dessert", which is certainly a valid alternative for those who cannot have a classic panettone. The dark chocolate coating is also good.
The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the "Oro" pistachio cream, made with simple and genuine ingredients: pistachio (50%), sugar, and olive oil. The amount of pistachio is truly impressive, which reflects positively in the taste and color (a brownish hue), which is completely natural and free of food coloring. The absence of dairy fats, replaced by olive oil, makes the taste of this cream very different from what one is generally used to, much more reminiscent of pure pistachio paste, in this case quite toasted. A truly sublime flavor for true pistachio lovers.
Evaluating the pistachio cream, as well as its pairing with the dessert, it is highly recommended for those looking for this type of product!
Naturally, if you do not have these specific requirements, I suggest you look towards other products with doughs more faithful to the traditional panettone.
In the 2018 and 2019 rankings, it was placed in the category:
- Best special alternatives
