Ingredients
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- 800 g high-quality dark chocolate
- 4 pinch salt
- fresh berries (optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- chocolate shavings (optional)
- 4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 12 large eggs
- whipped cream (optional)
Nutritional Information
Calculated based on standard values with available measurements and may therefore not be accurate.
Nutritional information not available.
Delicious Chocolate Mousse
Instructions
Step 1
Note that cooking time refers to recommended chilling time of 2-4 hours
Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate. You can do this by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or by using short bursts in the microwave, stirring between each burst. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.
Whip Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and half of the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Egg Yolk Mixture and Chocolate: Gradually pour the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to combine. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it reaches soft peaks. Be careful not to overwhip it.
Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate and egg yolk mixture. Use a spatula and make sure to incorporate the two mixtures thoroughly but gently. This step is important to maintain the mousse's airy texture.
Beat Egg Whites: In a clean and dry bowl, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining granulated sugar and continue beating until glossy and stiff peaks form.
Incorporate Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture in batches. Again, use a gentle folding motion to maintain the mousse's lightness.
Divide and Chill: Divide the chocolate mousse mixture among serving glasses or bowls. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Chill the Mousse: Place the chocolate mousse in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 to 4 hours, or until set.
Serve: Before serving, you can garnish the chocolate mousse with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.
Recipe Story
In the sprawling annals of culinary history, few desserts evoke the mystique and allure quite like chocolate mousse. A creation of elegance and decadence, it's a dessert that carries with it the whispers of a bygone era, a relic of the grand banquets of yesteryears, and a testament to the power of transformation.
As we delve into the depths of this velvety delight, it's essential to understand that the origins of chocolate mousse are as shrouded in mystery as the cocoa bean itself. Some culinary sleuths suggest that this ethereal concoction first emerged in the royal courts of France during the 18th century. An era renowned for its extravagance and the unapologetic indulgence of the aristocracy. The French, always masters of culinary innovation, are said to have crafted this dessert to showcase the newfound wonders of chocolate, a treasure brought back from the exotic lands of the Aztecs and Mayans.
But chocolate mousse, with its whipped, airy texture and rich, bittersweet flavor, isn't merely a relic of the past. It's a testament to the enduring allure of chocolate, a commodity that has traversed oceans, sparked revolutions, and ignited passions for centuries. It's a nod to the alchemy of the kitchen, where humble ingredients are transformed into something truly sublime.
As we prepare to embark on our own culinary journey, exploring the intricacies of chocolate mousse, remember that each bite carries within it the echoes of history, the artistry of generations of chefs, and the joy of countless diners who have savoured its velvety embrace. So, as we don our aprons and gather our ingredients, let's pay homage to the traditions that brought us this delight and celebrate the universal language of food that connects us all. In the spirit of adventure and reverence for the culinary world, let's uncover the secrets of chocolate mousse together.
