Herb and Parmesan Mini Soufflés

Mini soufflés with herbs and parmesan

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini soufflés

I have always believed that a successful weekend starts with a warm and delicious snack, and these mini soufflés with herbs and parmesan are the perfect solution to impress guests or to indulge with family. These mini delights are not only fluffy and aromatic, but they are also prepared very quickly, in record time.

A brief history of the recipe takes us back to times when soufflés were considered a delicacy of refined cuisine, associated with festive meals. Today, they have evolved into an accessible appetizer, ideal for any occasion, and can be adapted with various ingredients to suit everyone’s taste.

Ingredients:
- 200 g flour
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 5 eggs
- 350 ml milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2-3 fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for greasing the tray

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and airy mini soufflés.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, add the 5 whole eggs and start beating them with a whisk or mixer until their volume doubles. This process will help create the airy structure of the mini soufflés.

3. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour, parmesan, and milk, constantly mixing with the whisk. It is important to add the ingredients this way to prevent lumps from forming. The consistency of the batter should be similar to that of liquid sour cream.

4. Season: Finally, add the herbs: dried thyme and chopped rosemary, along with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs will add an intense flavor to the mini soufflés.

5. Prepare the tray: In a muffin tray, pour a drizzle of oil into each cavity. It is important not to overdo it with the oil, otherwise you risk having a smoking oven, as I experienced!

6. Heat the tray: Place the oiled tray in the preheated oven and leave it for 5 minutes. This step will help achieve a golden and delicious crust.

7. Add the batter: Carefully remove the tray from the oven (be cautious of the steam!). Pour the batter into each cavity, filling them up to two-thirds of their height. This will allow the mini soufflés to rise beautifully during baking.

8. Bake: Place the tray back in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the mini soufflés are fluffy and golden. Do not open the oven door during baking, otherwise you risk them collapsing.

9. Cool: Once the mini soufflés are ready, turn off the oven and let them cool inside for a few minutes. This will reduce the risk of them deflating quickly.

10. Enjoy: You can sprinkle a little grated parmesan on top before serving for extra flavor. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or even a yogurt sauce for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding other herbs, such as basil or dill.
- These mini soufflés pair perfectly with a glass of white wine or a citrus soft drink.
- You can turn them into a vegetarian dish by adding sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach.

Nutritional benefits:
These mini soufflés are a good source of protein due to the eggs, and the parmesan provides calcium. Additionally, the herbs not only enhance the flavor but also have antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why do mini soufflés collapse?
- Sometimes, opening the oven door too early or adding too much oil can cause this. Make sure to respect the baking time and do not open the oven.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?
- Absolutely! Goat cheese or mozzarella are excellent alternatives, but each cheese will slightly change the flavor.

3. How can I store mini soufflés?
- They are best served immediately, but if there are leftovers, you can store them in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

These mini soufflés with herbs and parmesan are an ideal choice not only for weekend snacks but also for any special occasion. Experiment with the ingredients and add your own variations to make them truly unique!