Chestnut-Chocolate Mousse

• MAKE-AHEAD
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
2. 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
3. 2 cups chilled heavy cream
4. 1 cup vacuum-packed roasted chestnuts, chopped
5. Salt
6. 4 large egg whites
7. 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
8. Unsweetened whipped cream and crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans, for serving

1. In a glass bowl, microwave the chocolates at 20-second intervals, stirring a few times, until melted. Let cool to warm.
2. In a stainless steel bowl, beat the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the chocolate, chestnuts and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large stainless steel or copper bowl, beat the egg whites to very soft peaks. While beating, gradually add the sugar and beat until firm, glossy peaks form, about 2 minutes. Stir one-third of the beaten whites into the chocolate mixture, then fold in the remaining whites.
4. Spoon the mousse into ten 2/3-cup ramekins. Cover and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours. Serve each mousse with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans.