Take your dessert game to luxurious heights with this Dubai Mousse recipe—a decadent dark chocolate mousse paired with crispy zaza-infused kataifi pastry and pistachio butter. This stunning dessert is inspired by the elegance and extravagance of Dubai, combining rich flavors and textures into an unforgettable experience. Perfect for New Year’s celebrations, dinner parties, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is a true masterpiece that will impress your guests.
Let’s break it down step by step to create this extraordinary treat!
What Makes Dubai Mousse Special?
1. Luxurious Flavors: The silky dark chocolate mousse pairs perfectly with the nutty crunch of pistachio butter and crispy kataifi pastry.
2. Zaza Infusion: The kataifi is fried in zaza-infused butter, adding a subtle herbal twist to this elegant dessert.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special dinner or a festive celebration, this dessert is as stunning to look at as it is to taste.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Mousse:
• 175g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
• 3.5 dl cream (divided into 1.5 dl + 2 dl)
• 3 egg yolks
• 3 egg whites
• 1 tbsp sugar
For the Zaza-Infused Kataifi:
• 2–3g zaza (your herb of choice)
• 100g butter (for infusion)
• 100g kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo dough)
• 2 tbsp pistachio butter
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Mousse
The base of this dessert is a rich and creamy dark chocolate mousse that is light yet decadent.
Instructions:
1. Melt the Chocolate:
• Combine 175g dark chocolate and 1.5 dl cream in a heatproof bowl.
• Melt the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Add Egg Yolks:
• Stir 3 egg yolks into the cooled chocolate mixture until smooth and glossy.
3. Whip the Egg Whites and Cream:
• In a separate bowl, whisk 3 egg whites with 1 tbsp sugar until stiff peaks form.
• In another bowl, whip 2 dl cream to soft peaks.
4. Fold Everything Together:
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.
• Gradually fold in the whipped egg whites, taking care to maintain the light and airy texture.
5. Set the Mousse:
• Divide the mousse into small glasses or serving dishes.
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the mousse to set.
Step 2: Infuse the Butter with Zaza
To give the crispy kataifi pastry a unique twist, we’ll fry it in zaza-infused butter.
Instructions:
1. Decarb the Zaza:
• Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
• Spread 2–3g zaza evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30–40 minutes until slightly golden and aromatic.
2. Infuse the Butter:
• Melt 100g butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the decarbed zaza and let it simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Strain the butter through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the plant material. Let the butter cool slightly before use.
Step 3: Fry the Kataifi and Add Pistachio Butter
The crispy kataifi topping adds texture and a nutty crunch to the mousse.
Instructions:
1. Heat the zaza-infused butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 100g kataifi pastry to the skillet and fry until golden and crispy, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking.
3. Remove the fried kataifi from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Mix in 2 tbsp pistachio butter, tossing until the kataifi is evenly coated with the nutty flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to plate your Dubai Mousse for a show-stopping presentation.
Instructions:
1. Remove the chilled mousse glasses from the fridge.
2. Top each glass with a generous layer of the crispy kataifi and pistachio mixture.
3. Garnish with additional pistachio crumbs, a drizzle of zaza-infused butter, or even edible gold flakes for extra flair.
Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the cool mousse and warm, crispy topping.
Tips for Success
• Choose High-Quality Chocolate: Since the mousse is chocolate-forward, use a dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor.
• Work Gently: When folding the egg whites and cream into the chocolate mixture, be careful not to overmix. This keeps the mousse light and airy.
• Use Fresh Kataifi: Kataifi pastry can dry out quickly, so make sure it’s fresh for the crispiest results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect Texture: The silky mousse, crispy kataifi, and creamy pistachio butter create a perfect blend of textures.
2. Luxurious Flavors: Dark chocolate, pistachios, and the subtle herbal notes from zaza make this dessert truly indulgent.
3. Impressive Presentation: The layered mousse and golden kataifi topping will wow your guests and make for an Instagram-worthy dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert without zaza?
Absolutely! Simply skip the infusion step and use regular butter instead. The dessert will still be delicious and luxurious.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! The mousse can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The kataifi topping is best prepared fresh to ensure it stays crispy.
What is kataifi pastry, and where can I find it?
Kataifi is a type of shredded phyllo dough commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean desserts. It’s available in specialty food stores or the frozen section of well-stocked supermarkets.
This Dubai Mousse with Zaza-Infused Kataifi and Pistachio Crunch is the perfect way to end a meal on a luxurious note. With its creamy chocolate base, nutty crunch, and herbal twist, it’s a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is unique. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a dessert that’s a true work of art. Cheers to good eats and great vibes! 🍫✨
Share the Love: Snap a pic of your creation and tag us with #SenseMunchies for a chance to be featured. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite! 🍁🥣
🎥 For a step-by-step demonstration, check out our Instagram video here featuring our chefs in action!
Skål!