Cheese polenta soufflé

Polenta Soufflé with Cheese and Broccoli: A Comforting Delicacy

Who doesn't love polenta? This traditional delicacy, also known as 'the bread of the poor', brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort to every meal. Today, we aim to transform polenta into a delicious soufflé with telemea cheese and broccoli, resulting in a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring color and well-being to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 g cornmeal
- 200 g telemea cheese (combine cow and sheep cheese for a more complex flavor)
- 300 g broccoli (fresh or frozen, for added nutrients)
- 2 tablespoons butter (choose a quality butter for better taste)
- 1 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon marjoram (a flavorful choice that pairs perfectly)
- 250 g sour cream (preferably fatty, for a creamy texture)
- 4 eggs (from free-range hens, if possible)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the Polenta:
Start by boiling 1.5 liters of water in a cauldron or a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the polenta. When the water starts to boil, gradually add 200 g of cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The polenta should be softer, so don't hesitate to add a little more water if needed. After about 10-15 minutes, when the polenta becomes creamy and easily separates from the pot's walls, it is ready.

2. Preparing the Dish:
Grease a baking tray or soufflé dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. This will help the soufflé release after baking and will add a pleasant flavor.

3. Assembling the Ingredients:
Pour the warm polenta into the greased dish, leveling it with a spatula. Grate the telemea cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the polenta.

4. Preparing the Broccoli:
If using frozen broccoli, place it in a pan with 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté for 5-7 minutes. If using fresh broccoli, boil it for 3-4 minutes before sautéing. In both cases, add salt, pepper, rosemary, and marjoram, and let it steam for 1 minute to blend the flavors. Place the broccoli on top of the telemea cheese.

5. Preparing the Egg Mixture:
In a bowl, beat the 4 eggs well with 250 g of sour cream until everything is homogeneous. Pour the mixture evenly over the broccoli and cheese, ensuring that all ingredients are well covered.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the soufflé for 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden and slightly browned. The aromas will fill the entire kitchen, and you'll feel like a true chef!

7. Serving:
The polenta soufflé with cheese and broccoli can be served immediately after taking it out of the oven, warm and steaming, but it is just as delicious cold the next day. You can cut it into generous portions and enjoy it as a main dish or as a side.

Practical Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add some slices of crispy bacon or some finely chopped black olives between the layers of polenta and cheese.
- If you want to add more flavor, you can include fresh or dried herbs, such as basil or thyme.
- This soufflé pairs perfectly with a fresh seasonal salad or a grilled vegetable roll.

Nutritional Benefits:
Polenta is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Telemea cheese is rich in protein and calcium, while broccoli offers an important supply of vitamins and minerals, being a vegetable with antioxidant effects. Additionally, this dish can be a good choice for a balanced meal, having a lower calorie content compared to other meat-based dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.

2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can also add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra variety.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
The soufflé can be used as a filling for sandwiches or added to salads.

I challenge you to try this polenta soufflé with cheese and broccoli recipe, a delicious combination that will bring a smile to your face and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!