Sprinkle powdered gelatin over the cold water. Set aside to allow gelatin to set.
1 Tablespoon Powdered Gelatin, 2 Tablespoons Cold Water
Place 6 ramekins on a tray or baking pan (one that will fit in your refrigerator).
Wash strawberries and remove stem.
½ Pint Fresh Strawberries
Cut strawberries into ¼" slices. Place 3 slices of strawberries into each ramekin.
Place remaining strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar (this will macerate the strawberries and pull out some of the juices, resulting in a sugary syrup to pour over the panna cotta once unmolded).
2 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar
Place cream, granulated sugar and vanilla bean paste in a large saucepan. Bring to a low boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching the cream.
3 Cups Heavy Cream, ⅓ Cup Granulated Sugar, 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste
Remove from heat as soon as the cream begins to boil.
Add gelatin to the cream mixture and stir until gelatin is completely dissolved. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
Pour mixture into a heat-proof measuring cup. Distribute evenly between the 6 ramekins pouring over the strawberry slices.
Place ramekins in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to set.