Potato souffle with bacon and green onions

Potato soufflé with bacon and green onions – an easy, fluffy, and delicious recipe! This dish is a true feast for the senses, combining the fluffy texture of potatoes with the enticing aroma of bacon and the freshness of green onions. Additionally, it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for better texture)
- 5 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 10 green onion stalks (fresh and crunchy)
- 200 g bacon (preferably smoked for a richer taste)
- 50 - 70 g butter (for added creaminess)
- 250 g fresh cheese (you can also use cottage cheese or feta)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (to add a touch of finesse)
- Spices: salt, chili, and tarragon to taste
- Oil for greasing the pan

Useful:
- A baking tray/form
- A large pot for boiling
- A blender or potato masher

A brief history of soufflé
The soufflé is a versatile dish originating from French cuisine, renowned for its airy and light texture. Over time, the soufflé has evolved, now having numerous variations, from savory ones with vegetables or meat to sweet ones with chocolate or fruit. This potato soufflé recipe with bacon and green onions combines tradition with modernity, offering a dish that can be served as both an appetizer and a main course.

Step by step for a perfect soufflé

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and washing them well. Place them in a large pot, covered with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor and boil them until soft, about 20-25 minutes.

2. Preparing the bacon and onions: In a pan, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Cut the bacon into slices or cubes, depending on your preference, and add it to the pan. Sauté until it becomes crispy and golden, then add the finely chopped green onions. Continue to sauté until the onions become translucent. Here, you can add a pinch of chili for an extra kick!

3. Mashing the potatoes: Once the potatoes are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Mashing can be done with a potato masher or a blender, depending on how smooth you want the puree. Add the butter and spices (salt, tarragon) and mix well.

4. Incorporating the ingredients: In the potato puree, add the eggs, sour cream, and grated cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly to achieve a homogeneous composition.

5. Assembling the soufflé: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the baking tray with a little oil. Pour the potato mixture into the tray, leaving a space of 2-3 cm at the top to allow the soufflé to rise. Add the bacon and onion mixture on top, sprinkling a little fresh dill for extra flavor.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake the soufflé for 25-30 minutes, or until the surface becomes golden and slightly crispy.

7. Gradual cooling: Once baked, it’s important to let the soufflé cool slightly inside the oven with the door ajar. This technique will prevent the soufflé from collapsing.

Serving and suggestions
Serve the potato soufflé warm, alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for a delicious contrast. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a blonde beer to complement the flavors.

Variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the bacon with grilled chicken breast or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also add grated cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using goat cheese or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- How can I make the soufflé lighter? Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier and different tasting option.
- What’s the secret for a soufflé that doesn't collapse? It’s essential not to open the oven during baking and to respect the cooling time.

Nutritional benefits
This potato soufflé is an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes are rich in potassium, and bacon adds protein. However, it’s best to consume in moderation, considering the fat content. One serving (approximately 200 g) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of bacon and cheese used.

Conclusion
Whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious dish, this potato soufflé with bacon and green onions is the perfect choice. The flavors blend perfectly, and the fluffy texture will make this dish a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and personalize it to your liking. Enjoy your meal!