Pots-au chocolat.

This is a delicious dessert and really easy to make. The pots can be prepared in advance and left in the fridge. I have saved the little ceramic pots you get with yoghurt and these are perfect to put the desserts in.

You will need-
75-g/3 oz plain chocolate. I like to use a really good quality chocolate with high coco content.

25g/1 oz butter-unsalted.

Yolks and whites of 3 medium free range eggs.

1-tablespoon warm water.

150ml/1/4 pint fresh double cream.

Method

1. Break up the chocolate and put into a basin standing over a saucepan of simmering water. Add the butter and stir until all has melted.
2. Beat in the egg yolks. Mix until all is smooth.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the warm water.
4. Whisk the egg whites until stiff and they stand in peaks. Fold into the chocolate mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture into 4 pots or glasses and chill.
6. The mixture will set in about 2 hours.
7. Just before you serve decorate with whipped cream. I sometimes add some chocolate shavings too.

If you prefer you can make coffee pots by exchanging the chocolate for 2 teaspoons of coffee powder.

As this recipe uses raw eggs it is not suitable for pregnant women or young children.