Chocolate Mousse

While we're traveling, I thought I'd keep you busy with another great recipe that we made this past weekend while sitting inside from the snow.

Chocolate Mousse from Martha Stewart. (Don't let MS scare you. This recipe is easy and very good.)

6 ounces semisweet chcolate
1 stick of unsalted butter
3 eggs separated
2 tbsp sugar
3/4 heavy cream
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, melt chocolate with the butter.  Set aside to cool.

When the choc. mixture has reached room temperature, add the egg yolks and stir well. 

Beat the egg whites to soft peaks, then, beating continuously, add the sugar until stiff peaks are formed.  Whisk a small portion of egg white into the choc. mixture to lighten it; gently fold in the remaining egg white.

Whip the cream with the vanilla until stiff, then fold it into the choc. mixture carefully but thoroughly.  Spoon the mixture into individual parfait dishes and chill.