Chocolate Mousse for Beginners

Ingredients:

1. Dark chocolate (200g, finely chopped)
2. Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
3. Eggs (3, separated)
4. Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
5. Heavy cream (1 cup)
6. Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
7. Pinch of salt

Preparation Steps:

1. Melt Chocolate:
   • In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate and butter together. You can use a microwave or a double boiler. Allow it to cool slightly.
2. Whip Egg Yolks:
   • In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
3. Combine Chocolate and Egg Yolks:
   • Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg yolks, stirring continuously to combine. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Whip Egg Whites:
   • In another clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar while continuing to whip until glossy and stiff peaks form.
5. Fold in Egg Whites:
   • Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture in two or three additions until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites.
6. Whip Heavy Cream:
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
7. Incorporate Whipped Cream:
   • Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and uniform.
8. Chill:
   • Spoon the chocolate mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
   • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the mousse to set.
9. Serve:
   • Before serving, you can garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or berries if desired.

Enjoy this simple yet decadent chocolate mousse, perfect for beginners and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings!