Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water
- Blender or food processor
- Serving glasses or bowls
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the diced pears until smooth. Set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool for a few minutes.
5. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the cooled egg yolk mixture into the whipped cream, followed by the pureed pears and melted chocolate mixture.
7. Divide the mousse evenly among serving glasses or bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
8. Serve chilled, garnished with additional diced pears or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
5. Temperature:
Simmering water for double boiler
Serving size:
Makes 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total fat: 24g
Saturated fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 175mg
Sodium: 40mg
Total carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of chocolate chips you prefer, such as milk or white chocolate.
- If you don't have a double boiler, you can use a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water instead.
- You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond or soy milk.
Variations:
- You can add a splash of pear liqueur or brandy to the mousse for an extra kick.
- You can substitute the pears with other fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries.
- You can omit the chocolate and add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a sweeter mousse.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form for a light and airy mousse.
- Be careful not to overcook the egg yolk mixture, as it can curdle and ruin the texture of the mousse.
- You can make the mousse ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
Storage instructions:
Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
This mousse is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mousse in elegant glasses or bowls for a sophisticated presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the mousse with additional diced pears or chocolate shavings for a beautiful finishing touch.
Pairings:
This mousse pairs well with a glass of champagne or sparkling wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the mousse with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mousse is too runny, you may have over-whipped the cream or undercooked the egg yolk mixture. Try whipping the cream less or cooking the egg yolk mixture for a few more minutes.
- If the mousse is too thick, you may have overcooked the egg yolk mixture. Try adding a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use pasteurized eggs to avoid the risk of salmonella.
Food history:
Poire Belle Hélène is a classic French dessert that consists of poached pears served with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. This mousse is a modern twist on the traditional dish.
Flavor profiles:
This mousse is sweet and creamy with a hint of pear and chocolate flavors.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this mousse as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: French