Cornmeal soufflé

Cornmeal Soufflé: An Unconventional Delicacy from the Heart of Tradition

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

I invite you to discover a delicious and surprising recipe that transforms a traditional cornmeal dish into a light and savory soufflé. The cornmeal soufflé is a perfect combination of the creamy texture of cornmeal and the rich flavors of cheese, offering a culinary experience that will delight even the most discerning palates. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of innovation to your kitchen.

Essential Ingredients:
- 380 grams of cornmeal (prepared but not too firm, ideal for cutting with a thread)
- 260 grams of fresh cheese
- 220 grams of sour cream
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- 100 grams of grated cheese (or more, to taste)
- 50 grams of butter (for greasing the dish)

A Bit of History:
Cornmeal is an emblematic dish in many cultures, known for its versatility. Used in various dishes, this corn base has been enhanced over time with different ingredients. The cornmeal soufflé adds a note of elegance and refinement to this simple ingredient, transforming it into a spectacular dish.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Cornmeal:
If you do not have prepared cornmeal, bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and gradually incorporate the cornmeal, stirring continuously with a whisk to avoid lumps. Cook the cornmeal for about 15-20 minutes until it becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pot. Let it cool slightly.

2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the warm cornmeal, fresh cheese, the 2 egg yolks, and sour cream. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The fresh cheese will add a fine texture and a delicate flavor, while the sour cream will provide creaminess.

3. Beating the Egg Whites:
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a firm foam. This step is essential to give the soufflé a fluffy and airy texture. Carefully fold the egg whites into the cornmeal mixture using a spatula, with circular motions from top to bottom to preserve the air in the egg whites.

4. Preparing the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a dish or two individual dishes well with butter (I used dishes with a diameter of 15 cm and a height of 5 cm). This step will help the soufflé release after baking and will add a delicious flavor.

5. Adding the Cheese:
Before pouring the mixture into the dishes, sprinkle the grated cheese on the bottom of the dish. It will melt and form a delicious crust, adding extra flavor to your soufflé.

6. Baking:
Carefully pour the soufflé mixture into the prepared dishes, leaving a little space at the top. Place the dishes in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the soufflé becomes golden and fluffy.

7. Serving:
Remove the soufflé from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or simply to savor all its flavors.

Practical Tips:
- Make sure the cornmeal is not too firm; otherwise, the soufflé will not have the desired texture. A slightly softer cornmeal will help achieve a fluffy soufflé.
- You can experiment with cheese. Replace the fresh cheese with cottage cheese or ricotta for a lighter version. Additionally, adding feta cheese will provide a more intense flavor.
- If you want a note of freshness, you can add chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:
The cornmeal soufflé is a good source of carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for a hearty lunch. The fresh cheese adds protein, while the grated cheese provides calcium and healthy fats. It is a recipe that combines taste with nutrition, making it an ideal dish for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use leftover cornmeal from another meal?
Absolutely! Leftover cornmeal can be successfully used; just make sure it is still fresh.

- What can I do with the leftover soufflé?
You can store the soufflé in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave for a quick snack.

- Can the soufflé be frozen?
It is recommended not to freeze the soufflé after baking, as the texture may change. Prepare and consume it fresh!

Recommended Recipes to Pair:
- Alongside the cornmeal soufflé, a fresh vegetable salad with a yogurt dressing will perfectly complement this dish.
- A tomato basil soup or lentil soup are excellent options for a complete lunch.

The cornmeal soufflé is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to explore culinary tradition with a modern twist. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite!