Are you looking to impress your guests with a classic French dish? Look no further than the basic cheese souffle recipe. This delightful dish is a perfect combination of airy, fluffy cheese topped with a golden brown crust. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to create a perfect cheese souffle that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– A pinch of nutmeg
– A pinch of paprika (optional)
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s begin with the basic cheese souffle recipe:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking dish with butter and sprinkle with a little flour to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms, known as a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, then gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and a pinch of paprika if desired.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until they are light and fluffy. Gradually add the cheese to the yolks, whisking until well combined.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can make the souffle dense.
6. Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the cheese mixture to lighten it. Then, fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can deflate the souffle.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed up. Once out of the oven, let the souffle sit for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow it to settle.
And there you have it – a delicious, basic cheese souffle that’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or family gathering. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
