Rich Chocolate Mousse

[Desserts]

70g/2½oz granulated sugar

110ml/4fl oz water

3 egg yolks

170g/6oz plain chocolate, chopped

340ml/12fl oz double cream, lightly whipped

1. Put the sugar and water into a small pan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved, then bring to the boil.

2. Boil to the short thread stage (when a little syrup is placed between a wet thumb and finger and the fingers are open it should form a thread about 2.5cm/1in long).

3. Allow to cool slightly.

4. Pour the sugar syrup over the egg yolks, whisking all the time. Carry on whisking until the mixture is thick and mousse like.

5. Carefully melt the chocolate, in a bowl over a pan of simmering water. Fold the melted chocolate into the egg mixture.

6. Immediately and carefully fold in the lightly whipped cream. Use as required.