Broccoli soufflé with cheese

Broccoli Cheese Soufflé – A Green and Savory Delight

Have you ever thought of a recipe that transforms vegetables into a culinary delight? Broccoli cheese soufflé is exactly what you are looking for! This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and delicious flavors. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this soufflé will bring a touch of greenery and freshness to your table.

Total preparation time: 70-80 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh broccoli
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 300 ml milk
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For serving:
- Sour cream (optional, but recommended for added creaminess and flavor)

A brief history:
The soufflé is a recipe that has traveled through the centuries, originating from French cuisine. It has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of culinary refinement. Its versatility makes it ideal for incorporating a variety of ingredients, from vegetables and cheeses to chocolate and fruits. The broccoli cheese soufflé is a modern reinterpretation that highlights the delicate flavor of the vegetables and the richness of the cheese.

Step by step for a perfect broccoli soufflé:

1. Preparing the broccoli:
- Break the broccoli into small, uniform florets. This will allow for even cooking.
- Wash it well under cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. When the water starts to boil, add the broccoli florets and boil for 5 minutes. This step will help maintain the vibrant green color.

2. Cooling the broccoli:
- After 5 minutes, drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of cold water, possibly with ice. This technique, called "blanching," will stop the cooking process and keep the vegetables crisp.

3. Preparing the sauce:
- In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and mix well, letting it cook for a few minutes. This will give a special flavor to your sauce.
- Gradually add the milk, constantly stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens, achieving a creamy consistency.

4. Combining the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, finely chop the blanched broccoli (except for a few florets you keep for decoration).
- Add the cottage cheese, egg yolks, the prepared sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.

5. Beating the egg whites:
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step will add an airy texture to your soufflé.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the broccoli mixture using a spatula to maintain the air in the egg whites.

6. Baking:
- Grease a baking dish with butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.
- Pour the mixture into the dish and level the surface.
- Bake the soufflé in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 40-50 minutes, or until golden on the edges and firm in the center.

7. Serving:
- Let the soufflé cool for a few minutes before cutting it. Serve warm, with a dollop of sour cream on top and decorate with the reserved broccoli florets.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella, to give the soufflé a distinct flavor.
- If you want to add a little extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley.
- This soufflé can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect for a picnic or a quick snack.
- The broccoli soufflé pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a dry white wine.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the recipe.

2. What can I do if I don’t have cottage cheese?
- You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor.

3. How long does the soufflé last?
- It can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating it in the oven to restore its fluffy texture.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Conclusion:
So, don’t wait any longer! Add this broccoli cheese soufflé recipe to your culinary repertoire and let yourself be carried away by its delicious flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a healthy meal, this soufflé will surely be a hit! Enjoy!