Vegetarian Soufflé

Ingredients

The Vegetarian Soufflé differs from the original French Soufflé by omitting the traditional use of eggs and incorporating a variety of vegetables instead. This adaptation ensures that the dish remains vegetarian-friendly while still maintaining the essence of a classic soufflé. The substitution of eggs with alternative ingredients creates a light and airy texture, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian diet. We alse have the original recipe for Soufflé, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option) 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter (or vegan butter for vegan option) 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter (or vegan butter for vegan option)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup (120g) grated cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyere) 1 cup (120g) grated cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyere)
• 1 cup (150g) mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach), finely diced 1 cup (150g) mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach), finely diced
• 4 tablespoons (15g) fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and chives), finely chopped 4 tablespoons (15g) fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and chives), finely chopped
• Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing the ramekins Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing the ramekins

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease the ramekins with cooking spray or butter.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. 3.
   Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and grated cheese until melted and well combined.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced vegetables and fresh herbs. Fold the vegetable mixture into the cheese sauce.
6. 6.
   In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites (or vegan egg substitute) until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the vegetable and cheese mixture.
7. 7.
   Spoon the mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full.
8. 8.
   Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the soufflés have risen and turned golden brown.
9. 9.
   Serve immediately while still puffed and enjoy the light and flavorful Vegetarian Soufflé.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese — Use a flavorful cheese such as cheddar or Gruyere for a rich taste.
• Fresh herbs — Opt for a combination of parsley, thyme, and chives to enhance the flavors of the vegetables.
• Mixed vegetables — Choose a variety of colorful vegetables to add visual appeal and a range of flavors to the soufflé.
• Vegetable broth — Use a high-quality vegetable broth to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Cooking spray or butter — Grease the ramekins thoroughly to ensure the soufflés rise evenly and release easily.

Tips & Tricks

• Be gentle when folding in the beaten egg whites to maintain the light and airy texture of the soufflé.
• Serve the soufflés immediately after baking to enjoy them at their fullest height and fluffiness.
• Experiment with different combinations of vegetables and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile.
• For a vegan option, substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives such as vegan cheese and butter.
• Serve the Vegetarian Soufflé as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Soufflé as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The soufflé's vibrant colors and delicate texture make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any vegetarian feast.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Vegetarian Soufflé, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs on top before serving. The green specks of herbs will add a pop of color and freshness to the golden-brown surface of the soufflé.