Valentine’s Day is almost upon us, and as we are still in lockdown it’s most likely going to mean date night at home.

So why not treat yourself and someone you love to the most deliciously dark spiced chocolate mousse? (Or just eat two!!)

Whilst perfect for a romantic night in, it is super rich so you could equally divide it into little shot glasses for a larger gathering.

Serves 2-6

Ingredients

65g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)

15g butter

A good pinch of chilli powder

2 tsp strong espresso

2 eggs

15g caster sugar

1 tbsp tequila or rum

A pinch of sea salt.

Method

Break up the chocolate and put it into a heat proof bowl with the butter. Heat in short blasts on a medium temperature in the microwave until melted. Add the chilli powder and espresso and stir well until smooth.

Separate the eggs into two good sized mixing bowls. Add the sugar to the yolks and whisk with a handheld beater on high speed for several minutes until pale and thick.

Stir the yolk and sugar mixture into the chocolate, and add the booze.

Clean your beaters and then whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form soft peaks.

Stir a little of the egg white into the chocolate mixture to loosen it up, then gently fold in the rest of the whites with a large metal spoon until fully incorporated, trying not to knock out too much of the air.

Spoon the mousse into two individual glasses or four to six mini shot glasses and then transfer them to the fridge for a few hours to set.

Top with some whipped or pouring cream before serving for a little extra decadence.