Magic Chocolate Mousse

This surprisingly simple chocolate mousse needs only dark chocolate, water, and a little salt. Whipping the melted mixture over ice transforms it into a smooth, airy dessert without eggs or cream.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 3 ounces water
• Pinch of salt

For an adult variation, replace 1 ounce of the water with a complementary spirit or liqueur.

Method

1. Prepare a large bowl containing ice and cold water. Set a smaller mixing bowl inside it.
2. Gently heat the chocolate, water, and salt together, stirring until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is completely smooth.
3. Pour the chocolate mixture into the chilled bowl.
4. Whisk continuously, by hand or with an electric mixer, until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and mousse-like. This can take several minutes.
5. Spoon the mousse into small serving dishes and serve immediately, or refrigerate briefly for a firmer texture.

Tips for Success

• Use chocolate you enjoy eating, because its flavor dominates the finished dessert.
• Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form. Overwhipping can make the mousse grainy or excessively firm.
• If the mousse becomes too stiff, gently melt it again and repeat the chilling and whipping process.
• Serve small portions—the mousse is intensely chocolatey.

Serving Ideas

Serve the mousse plain or finish it with fresh berries, orange zest, toasted nuts, coconut cream, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.