Chestnut-Chocolate Mousse

By BobD

Marcia Kiesel uses chestnuts to add a sophisticated flavor to a luxe chocolate mousse.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups chilled heavy cream
• 1 cup vacuum-packed roasted chestnuts, chopped
• Salt
• 4 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
• Unsweetened whipped cream and crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans, for serving

Details

Servings 10
Cooking time 150mins
Adapted from foodandwine.com

Preparation

Step 1

In a glass bowl, microwave the chocolates at 20-second intervals, stirring a few times, until melted. Let cool to warm.

In a stainless steel bowl, beat the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the chocolate, chestnuts and a pinch of salt.

In a large stainless steel or copper bowl, beat the egg whites to very soft peaks. While beating, gradually add the sugar and beat until firm, glossy peaks form, about 2 minutes. Stir one-third of the beaten whites into the chocolate mixture, then fold in the remaining whites.

Spoon the mousse into ten 2/3-cup ramekins. Cover and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours. Serve each mousse with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans.