Dream-time chocolate mousse

Ready in ½ hour plus chilling Serves 8

400g 50%-60% dark chocolate

600ml chilled cream

3 eggs

¼ cup sugar

3 Tbsp brandy, or rum or kahlua

TO GARNISH (optional) Shavings of white chocolate or

roasted hazelnuts

Melt chocolate in a stainless bowl over a pot of simmering water, or microwave in 20 second bursts stirring until melted. While chocolate melts, in a clean bowl, beat the cream to soft peaks. Using a separate bowl (you can use the same beater to save on dishes) beat the eggs with the sugar until creamy and pale.

Take chocolate off the heat and quickly stir in the beaten eggs. Fold in brandy or other booze. Cool for 5 minutes, before adding to the whipped cream. Fold until rippled or stir well, as preferred.

Tip mixture into a 2 litre container, (an ice cream container works well), cover chill in the fridge until set, at least 4 hours, or up to 3 days.

Serve in small glasses or bowls with a garnish of shaved chocolate or chopped roasted hazelnuts if desired.

NOTE: If you don’t want to add the booze here you can leave it out and use the same amount of orange juice, but it’s not a lot and really does add a fabulous flavour. It makes a lot but lasts for a few days in the fridge.

Match this with ...

Batched Espresso Martini 725ml ($45)

Hand on heart, I’ve never met a mum who does not love chocolate mousse. I have also not met a mum who does not love an espresso martini. I’m also sure that if I set up some kind of Mum’s Chocolate Mousse and Espresso Martini Appreciation Society, I’d quickly be oversubscribed.

Health nuts might suggest I take a good look at the mums I’m hanging out with, but I suggest they get in the bin especially when a bottle of Batched is uncorked. All you need is ice, a shaker and a spare 30 seconds and you’ll be able to whip up rich, dark, deliciousness. Locally made from triple distilled vodka, fair trade organic coffee beans, it’s an indulgent bad influence with this perfect pudding. blackmarket.co.nz