Tomato Cheese Soufflé is a delightful dish that combines the fresh taste of tomatoes with the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese. The secret to its light and fluffy texture lies in the whisked egg whites, gently folded into the mixture before baking. This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, offering a satisfying yet elegant meal option.
About the Recipe
Tomato Cheese Soufflé offers a unique blend of flavours and textures, making it a must-try. Originating from the classic French soufflé, this recipe introduces a savoury twist with fresh tomatoes and cheddar cheese. The process of creating a soufflé might seem intimidating, but with clear instructions and a bit of patience, it becomes an enjoyable cooking adventure. This dish not only impresses with its taste but also its beautiful presentation, rising tall and golden brown from the oven.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love Tomato Cheese Soufflé for its combination of simplicity and sophistication. The rich, cheesy flavour with the tomatoes’ fresh, tangy taste creates a balanced and delightful dish. Its light and airy texture makes it a pleasure to eat, while the straightforward preparation process makes it accessible even for novice cooks. This soufflé is perfect for any meal, adding a touch of elegance to your table without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Tomato Cheese Souffle
Cooking Tips
For the best results, use room-temperature eggs and fold the whisked egg whites gently into the mixture to maintain their airiness. Blanching and finely chopping the tomatoes ensures they integrate smoothly into the soufflé. Preheating the oven and baking immediately after mixing helps the soufflé rise ideally.
Cultural Context
The soufflé, a classic French dish, has been adapted to various cuisines worldwide. Tomato Cheese Soufflé brings a savoury twist to the traditional sweet versions, reflecting the versatility of this beloved dish. Soufflés are often served during special occasions or as a luxurious meal option due to their impressive presentation and delightful texture.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Tomato Cheese Soufflé serves four and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. Enjoy it immediately for the best texture, as soufflés can deflate quickly. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and reheat them gently in the oven to retain some of the original fluffiness.
Other Similar Recipes
- Tomato Basil Tart
- Cheese Quiche
- Spinach and Feta Soufflé
- Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole
Nutrient Benefits
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K and antioxidants like lycopene, which promote heart health. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients, while cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health.
Tomato Cheese Soufflé
Ingredients
- 4 Medium Tomatoes
- 3 Eggs
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1 tbsp Refined Flour
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Blanch and peel the tomatoes.
- Finely chop the tomatoes.
- Separate the eggs, whisking the yolks until well blended.
- Heat the oil over low heat and blend in the flour.
- Stir continuously until the mixture starts to sizzle.
- Add milk, stirring vigorously, to avoid lumps.
- Cook over low heat until the sauce thickens.
- Mix in salt, pepper, cheese, and chopped tomatoes.
- Cook for 1 minute, then add egg yolks, stirring for another minute.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled tomato mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for about 15 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
- Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my soufflé rises appropriately?
To ensure your Tomato Cheese Soufflé rises properly, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form and gently fold them into the mixture to maintain airiness. Preheating the oven and baking immediately after mixing helps the soufflé rise beautifully.
Can I use a different type of cheese for this soufflé?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or a mix of different cheeses. Ensure they are grated or finely chopped to blend well into the mixture.
What should I serve with Tomato Cheese Soufflé?
Tomato Cheese Soufflé pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a bowl of hearty tomato soup. For a more substantial meal, you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish.
Can I make this soufflé ahead of time?
Soufflés are best enjoyed fresh from the oven for maximum fluffiness and texture. However, you can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, whisk the egg whites, fold them, and bake as directed.
Is Tomato Cheese Soufflé suitable for vegetarians?
Tomato Cheese Soufflé is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or meat products. It’s a delicious and nutritious vegetarian meal option, packed with protein from the eggs and cheese and vitamins from the tomatoes.
