French Veal Souffle. Recipe
French Veal Soufflé Recipe:
The French Veal Soufflé is a classic dish that exemplifies the elegance and refinement of French cuisine. This delicate and flavorful dish combines tender veal meat with a fluffy soufflé, creating an exquisite taste experience. The history of this recipe dates back to the 18th century, where it gained popularity among the French nobility and upper class. Today, it remains a beloved dish in French cuisine, often served in upscale restaurants and during special occasions.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the word "soufflé" means "to puff up" in French? This refers to the characteristic rise and lightness of the dish, thanks to the incorporation of beaten egg whites.
Now, let's dive into the recipe, step by step:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of veal, minced
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoonfuls of water
- A pinch of salt
- All-purpose flour
- Chopped parsley
- Bits of butter
- Soup stock (preferably veal or chicken)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs with 2 tablespoonfuls of water and a pinch of salt, until well combined.
2. Gradually add enough all-purpose flour to the egg mixture, stirring continuously, until a stiff dough is formed.
3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it well with additional flour, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This will help develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a more structured soufflé.
4. Roll out the dough as thinly as possible using a rolling pin. Aim for a rectangular shape.
5. Fold the rolled-out dough in half, creating a double-layered square. This step will help lock in the filling and prevent leakage during cooking.
6. Cut the folded dough into square pieces, approximately 3-4 inches in size.
7. In a separate bowl, combine the minced cooked veal with chopped parsley and bits of butter. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
8. Spoon a tablespoonful of the veal mixture onto the center of each dough square.
9. Fold the edges of the dough square over the filling, creating a sealed pouch. Press firmly to ensure the edges are secure.
10. In a large pot, bring the soup stock to a boil. You can use veal or chicken stock for added flavor.
11. Carefully drop each filled dough pouch (known as "crebchen") into the boiling soup stock. Allow the crebchen to cook until they are firm and fully cooked through. This should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
12. Once the crebchen are cooked, remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
13. Serve the French Veal Soufflé alongside the soup stock, allowing the crebchen to soak up the flavors of the broth.
Enjoy this delightful French Veal Soufflé as a main course or as a sophisticated appetizer, paired with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine. The combination of tender veal and the light, fluffy texture of the soufflé will surely impress your guests and transport them to the heart of French culinary traditions.
Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed the French Veal Soufflé, you might also appreciate these similar recipe dishes in French cuisine:
1. Chicken Soufflé: This variation replaces veal with cooked chicken, offering a lighter and milder flavor profile. The preparation method remains the same, with the chicken filling being enclosed in the dough and cooked in soup stock.
2. Cheese Soufflé: A savory twist on the classic soufflé, this dish incorporates grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Emmental) into the basic egg and flour mixture. Baked until puffed up and golden, the cheese soufflé is a beloved French comfort food.
3. Spinach Soufflé: Ideal for vegetarians, the spinach soufflé combines sautéed spinach with the basic soufflé mixture. The earthy flavor of the spinach adds depth to the dish while retaining its iconic lightness.
Remember, the key to a successful soufflé lies in achieving the perfect rise and texture, so be sure to follow the instructions closely. Bon appétit!
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