Broccoli Soufflé is a true masterpiece in the world of savory soufflés. This dish boasts a harmonious blend of fluffy and creamy textures, punctuated by the earthy, vibrant flavors of broccoli. As beautiful as it is delicious, Broccoli Soufflé is a fantastic choice for a special brunch or a cozy family dinner. In this blog post, we’ll share a recipe that will guide you to prepare this elegant dish with ease. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or looking for keto and low-carb options, Broccoli Soufflé offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Broccoli Soufflé, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto version)
- 1 cup whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk for keto version)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a keto-friendly cheese)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Cooking spray for greasing the soufflé dish
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart soufflé dish with cooking spray.
2. Steam the Broccoli: Steam the fresh broccoli florets until they are tender, then finely chop them. Set them aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the all-purpose flour (or almond flour for the keto version) and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, creating a smooth paste, or roux.
4. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk for keto). Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat.
5. Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (or keto-friendly cheese), allowing it to melt into the sauce. The result should be a creamy, cheesy mixture.
6. Egg Yolks and Broccoli: Add the four large egg yolks to the cheese sauce, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then, fold in the finely chopped broccoli.
7. Season and Spice: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). The nutmeg adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
8. Whisk Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for the soufflé’s airy rise.
9. Gently Combine: Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the broccoli and cheese mixture, preserving the fluffy texture.
10. Bake to Perfection: Pour the combined mixture into the greased soufflé dish and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the soufflé has puffed and is lightly golden.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the broccoli is steamed until tender but not mushy for the ideal texture.
- When whipping egg whites, make sure the bowl and beaters are clean and free of any traces of oil to achieve the stiff peaks.
Variations
- Elevate your Broccoli Soufflé with additional ingredients like diced ham or sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Swiss, gruyere, or feta, for unique taste profiles.
Keto Version For a keto-friendly Broccoli Soufflé, substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour and use unsweetened almond milk. Ensure that the cheese is keto-compliant. This version allows you to indulge in the creamy elegance of a soufflé while aligning with your low-carb dietary goals.
Low-Carb Version To create a low-carb adaptation, utilize almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and opt for unsweetened almond milk. Ensure your cheese choice is low in carbs. This version permits you to enjoy the rich delights of Broccoli Soufflé while adhering to your low-carb lifestyle.
Broccoli Soufflé is the epitome of sophistication and comfort in a single dish. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb variations, it offers a culinary journey through creamy elegance and rich flavors. Prepare it with love, share it with your loved ones, and embrace the culinary delight that is Broccoli Soufflé.
