Say “Ooh la la!” to the French Soufflé 🧀🍓 

Light, airy, and melt-in-the-mouth, the French soufflé is a dish that never fails to impress. This culinary masterpiece combines the simplest of ingredients with a little kitchen magic to create something truly magnifique.

A Bite of History

The word soufflé comes from the French verb souffler, meaning “to puff up” or “to breathe” — a perfect description of its delicate rise in the oven. First recorded in the early 18th century, the soufflé quickly became a favourite of French aristocracy, symbolising refined dining and elegant entertaining.

The golden rule? Timing is everything. A soufflé waits for no one, so have your guests seated and glasses poured — the moment it leaves the oven, it’s ready to be enjoyed.

Classic Cheese Soufflé Recipe

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 50g butter, plus extra for greasing

• 30g plain flour

• 300ml whole milk, warmed

• 4 large eggs, separated

• 100g grated cheese (Camembert, Comté, Gruyère, or your favourite French cheese)

• Pinch of nutmeg

• Salt & pepper to taste

Method

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and butter 4 individual ramekins.

2. Melt butter in a pan, stir in flour, and cook for 1 minute.

3. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until smooth, then simmer until thickened.

4. Remove from heat, stir in cheese, nutmeg, and seasoning.

5. Beat in egg yolks, one at a time.

6. In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.

7. Gently fold whites into the cheese mixture, keeping as much air as possible.

8. Spoon into ramekins, filling ¾ full.

9. Bake 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Goat’s Cheese & Herbs: Fold in 2 tbsp fresh chopped chives or tarragon.

• Parmesan & Truffle: Replace cheese with Parmesan and add a drizzle of truffle oil.

• Roquefort & Walnut: A bold, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with a green salad.

🍷 Pairing tip: Cheese soufflés love crisp whites like Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, or a lightly oaked Chardonnay.

Sweet Alternative: Strawberry Soufflé 🍓

A soufflé isn’t only for cheese lovers. The fruity version makes for a light, elegant dessert that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 250g fresh strawberries, hulled

• 50g caster sugar

• 2 tsp lemon juice

• 4 large egg whites

• Butter & sugar for greasing ramekins

Method

1. Preheat oven to 190°C. Grease ramekins with butter and dust with sugar.

2. Blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice into a smooth purée.

3. In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.

4. Gently fold purée into the egg whites, keeping it airy.

5. Spoon mixture into ramekins, level tops with a spatula.

6. Bake for 12–14 minutes until risen and lightly golden.

7. Dust with icing sugar and serve at once.

🍸 Serving suggestion: Pair with a glass of chilled rosé or a splash of Champagne for a celebratory touch.

How to Serve Soufflés

• Starter: Mini cheese soufflé with rocket salad & walnut vinaigrette.

• Main Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables or buttery asparagus for a simple yet elegant dinner.

• Party Piece: Offer an assortment of individual soufflés (cheese, chocolate, strawberry) and let guests find their favourite.

✨ Whether savoury or sweet, the soufflé is a shining example of French culinary flair. Easy enough for home cooks yet impressive enough for special occasions, it’s a dish that guarantees smiles and a whispered “Ooh la la!” at the table.