Chocolate Mousse

Because bittersweet chocolate is high in pure chocolate (at least 35 percent cocoa solids), it's best used when a deep chocolate flavor is called for. It's also a great eating chocolate. Semisweet chocolate, which has more sugar and fewer cocoa solids than bittersweet, can often be substituted in recipes without significantly affecting the flavor or texture.

Everyday Food, December 2003 http://www.marthastewart.com/336783/chocolate-mousse

- 4 large egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 3/4 cup heavy cream. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring, until mixture coats back of spoon, 3 to 4 minutes (do not boil). Remove from heat; whisk in melted chocolate and vanilla. Strain into a bowl; chill until cool.
With an electric mixer, beat remaining 1 1/4 cups heavy cream with remaining 2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form. Stir 1/3 of whipped cream into cooled custard mixture, then gently fold in the rest with a rubber spatula.
Spoon into serving dishes; chill, covered, at least 30 minutes and up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.