French Cheese Soufflé with Chives

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Method

1. 01
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a soufflé dish with butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
2. 02
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
3. 03
   Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. 04
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. 05
   Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the grated Gruyère cheese and chopped chives. Set aside.
6. 06
   In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
7. 07
   Gently fold the egg whites into the cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
8. 08
   Pour the mixture into the prepared soufflé dish and place it in the middle of the oven.
9. 09
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the soufflé is puffed and golden brown on top. Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
10. 10
    Serve immediately, as the soufflé will begin to deflate quickly once removed from the oven.