National Cheese Soufflé Day
Puff Up Your Taste Buds: Celebrate National Cheese Soufflé Day!
On May 18, get ready to indulge in one of France’s most elegant culinary creations: the cheese soufflé. A perfect balance of airy fluff and savory richness, the cheese soufflé has earned its place as a beloved dish in kitchens across the world. The word “soufflé” comes from the French verb souffler, which means “to puff up” or “to blow up”—and rightfully so, as these light, fluffy dishes rise beautifully in the oven, transforming into a golden delight. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner looking to impress at your next dinner party, National Cheese Soufflé Day is the perfect occasion to give this dish a try.
The beauty of the cheese soufflé lies in its versatility. While it’s traditionally made with cheese, a soufflé can take on many forms, from sweet to savory. The cheese version, however, holds a special place in our hearts—featuring a velvety cheese sauce base combined with whipped egg whites, which gives it its airy texture. A perfect balance of richness and fluffiness, the cheese soufflé can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Making a soufflé may sound intimidating, but once you master it, you’ll be able to create an impressive dish that’s sure to be the star of any meal. The process involves creating a flavorful cheese sauce, folding in whipped egg whites, and carefully baking the mixture to achieve a light, soufflé-like rise. While it may require a little bit of patience, the result is undeniably worth it. Plus, the potential for customization is endless—whether you’re a fan of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a rich Parmesan, the choice of cheese can make a big difference in the dish’s flavor profile.
Celebrate National Cheese Soufflé Day by trying out this timeless recipe in your own kitchen or enjoying it at your favorite restaurant. It’s a great way to appreciate French cuisine and add a bit of sophistication to your meal, all while indulging in the savory goodness of cheese!
Fun Facts About Cheese Soufflés
- Famous Origins: The cheese soufflé is attributed to the French chef Vincent La Chapelle, who first mentioned the dish in his 1735 cookbook Le Cuisinier Moderne. Though it gained popularity in the 18th century, soufflés became a true culinary staple in French cuisine by the 19th century.
- A Dish That Can ‘Fall’: Soufflés are notorious for their delicate nature. While they rise beautifully in the oven, they can also fall just as quickly once removed. This is why it’s essential to serve them immediately—before the airiness deflates!
- Varieties Galore: The cheese soufflé is just one of many soufflé variations. While cheese remains the classic filling, soufflés can also be made with vegetables, meats, and even sweet ingredients like chocolate or fruit.
- Techniques Matter: To achieve the perfect rise, the soufflé mixture must be folded gently, ensuring that the whipped egg whites retain their airiness. Over-mixing could result in a dense, flat soufflé.
- Culinary Icon: The cheese soufflé is a staple in French haute cuisine, and it’s a favorite of chefs like Auguste Escoffier, who included it in his repertoire of iconic French dishes.
The History of Cheese Soufflé
The history of the soufflé dates back to the 18th century, when French chef Vincent La Chapelle first mentioned the recipe in his book Le Cuisinier Moderne. La Chapelle’s version was more of a foundation for later soufflés, which evolved to include cheese as the primary ingredient. The soufflé became a favorite in French royal courts, and by the 19th century, it was commonly served in fine dining establishments.
The soufflé gained further fame thanks to French chef Marie-Antoine Carême, who refined the technique and popularized it among aristocrats and the haute cuisine scene. Carême's soufflés were lauded for their texture and delicate balance of flavors. Over time, the dish became synonymous with French culinary elegance. By the 20th century, soufflés had become staples in both French homes and upscale restaurants worldwide.
Today, the soufflé is considered a classic French dish, and while it remains a favorite in French cuisine, it has been embraced by chefs and home cooks all over the world. It’s no longer reserved for the French elite but has instead become a universal dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients when combined with technique and care.
How to Celebrate National Cheese Soufflé Day
- Try Your Hand at Cooking: Celebrate the day by making your own cheese soufflé at home! The process might seem tricky, but with patience and the right ingredients, you’ll be able to impress your guests (or yourself) with a beautifully puffed soufflé. There are tons of recipes online to guide you step-by-step, including variations that incorporate different types of cheese.
- Visit a French Bistro: Don’t feel like cooking? Head to your favorite French bistro and order a classic cheese soufflé to enjoy on National Cheese Soufflé Day. Many French restaurants have perfected this delicate dish, and it’s a great way to taste a restaurant-quality soufflé.
- Host a Soufflé Party: For those who love hosting, consider throwing a soufflé-themed dinner party. Have friends bring their best soufflé creations, or share your own cheese soufflé recipe with others. It’s a fun way to experiment with different flavors and techniques while celebrating this French classic.
- For Restaurant Owners: Use National Cheese Soufflé Day as an opportunity to feature a special soufflé on your menu! Offer a savory cheese soufflé paired with wine, or even make it a special entrée for customers to enjoy as part of a prix fixe menu for the day.
Certivance: Your Go-To for Food Safety
At Certivance, we know that food safety is crucial, whether you’re serving soufflés at home or in a commercial kitchen. Our expert certifications and food safety solutions ensure that your business stays compliant with health standards while delivering top-notch dishes to your customers. From handling ingredients to serving up delicacies like the cheese soufflé, we’ve got your back.
Visit us at Certivance.com to learn more about how we can help improve food safety in your kitchen.
