French Chocolate Mousse

French Chocolate Mousse

6 ounces semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
3 eggs, separated
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 cup sugar + 2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
whipped cream for garnish
chocolate shavings for garnish

Place the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and place over a
saucepan containing barely simmering water (or use a double boiler). Melt
the chocolate and butter together and stir with a wooden spoon until
smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Add the egg yolks to the
chocolate, 1 by 1, beating with a whisk until incorporated. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar
and continue to beat. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating
until stiff peaks form.
Beat heavy cream in a chilled bowl until it begins to foam and thicken up.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and vanilla. Continue to whip the
cream until it holds soft peaks.
Gradually and gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to
lighten it. Then, delicately fold in the whipped cream. Take care not over
work the mousse. Divide mousse into 4 individual glasses. Cover and chill
for several hours. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before
serving.
Makes 4 servings.