Leek & Herb Soufflé

Leek and Herb Soufflé is a light and flavorful dish that showcases the delicate taste of leeks and the aromatic essence of fresh herbs. This recipe combines sautéed baby leeks with vegetable stock, finely chopped walnuts, egg yolks, Greek-style yogurt, and a medley of fresh herbs. The mixture is transformed into a fluffy and airy soufflé by incorporating whipped egg whites. The soufflé is baked in the oven until it rises and sets, creating an impressive and mouthwatering centerpiece. Serve this Leek and Herb Soufflé immediately to enjoy its delicate texture and subtle flavors. It is perfect as a standalone dish for a vegetarian meal or as a delightful side dish for a special occasion. Follow the simple steps below to create a delightful soufflé that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 350g/12oz baby leeks, finely chopped
• 125ml/4fl oz vegetable stock
• 50g/2oz walnuts
• 2 eggs, separated
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mixed herbs
• 2 tablespoons Greek-style yogurt
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4. Lightly grease a 900ml/11⁄2pt soufflé dish with vegetable oil.
2. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan. Add the finely chopped baby leeks and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable stock to the pan, reduce the heat, and simmer gently for a further 5 minutes.
4. Put the walnuts in a blender or food processor and chop them finely. Add the sautéed leek mixture to the nuts and process briefly to form a purée. Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the egg yolks, chopped fresh herbs, and Greek-style yogurt until thoroughly combined.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the leek purée. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and mix well.
7. Put a baking tray into the preheated oven to warm.
8. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until firm peaks form.
9. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the leek mixture.
10. Spoon the mixture into the prepared soufflé dish, and place the dish on the warmed baking tray.
11. Bake the Leek and Herb Soufflé in the oven for 35-40 minutes until it rises and sets.
12. Serve the soufflé immediately for the best texture and flavor.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure that the egg whites are whisked until firm peaks form to create a light and airy soufflé.
• Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the leek mixture to preserve the volume and airiness of the soufflé.

TIPS:

• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme.
• Serve the soufflé as a light lunch or dinner with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
• Accompany the soufflé with a light sauce such as a creamy herb sauce or a tangy tomato salsa.
• Enjoy the soufflé immediately, as it will deflate over time.

YIELD:

Serves 4.

Leek and Herb Soufflé is a delightful dish that celebrates the delicate flavors of leeks and the aromatic essence of fresh herbs. This recipe combines sautéed baby leeks with vegetable stock, finely chopped walnuts, egg yolks, Greek-style yogurt, and a medley of fresh herbs. The mixture is transformed into a light and airy soufflé by incorporating whipped egg whites. The soufflé is baked until it rises and sets, creating an impressive centerpiece with a delicate texture and subtle flavors.

This Leek and Herb Soufflé can be enjoyed as a standalone dish for a vegetarian meal or as a delightful side dish for a special occasion. Customize the recipe by incorporating your favorite herbs to create your own flavor profile. Serve the soufflé with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Preparing this dish involves sautéing the leeks, blending them with finely chopped walnuts to create a purée, and combining it with the egg yolk mixture. The whipped egg whites are gently folded in, and the soufflé is baked until it rises and sets to perfection.

Savor the Leek and Herb Soufflé immediately after baking to enjoy its delicate texture and subtle flavors. Accompany it with a light sauce or enjoy it on its own. This soufflé is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.