Dark chocolate fondue

300g (11oz) dark chocolate, broken into small pieces
6tbsp double cream
1tbsp Grand Marnier (optional)

To serve
Marshmallows or fresh fruit such as cherries, strawberries, physalis (cape gooseberries), grapes or pineapple wedges

With only cream, liqueur and chocolate in the recipe, it's essential that you use only the finest chocolate.

In short	Preparation time: 15 mins Serves: 4 people Cuisine: Vegetarian Course: Desserts
Nutrition (per portion)	500 calories 33g fat (20g saturates)

Method

1. Put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and place over a pan of gently simmering water (the base should not touch the water), and stir until melted. Transfer to a fondue bowl if using, or place in a small saucepan and set on a table over a warming tray.

2. Bring the double cream to the boil in a small saucepan and stir into the chocolate mixture with the Grand Marnier if using. Stir to mix well.

3. To serve, dip the marshmallows or fruit into the warm chocolate using fondue forks or wooden skewers – eat immediately.

Photographs Peter Cassidy; food Sunil Vijayakar