Baked Fish Soufflé Recipe from Guyana

Baked Fish Soufflé

Baked Fish Soufflé Recipe from Guyana
Region / culture: Guyana | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Fish Soufflé
Baked Fish Soufflé

Baked Fish Soufflé is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of fish with the airy, fluffy texture of a soufflé. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress at dinner parties or enjoy a sophisticated meal at home. The combination of simple ingredients and a bit of culinary technique results in a dish that's both flavorful and visually impressive.

History

The concept of a soufflé dates back to early 18th century France, with the word "soufflé" itself meaning "to blow" or "puff up" - a reference to the dish's airy texture. Fish soufflés, incorporating various types of fish and seafood, became popular as chefs and home cooks alike experimented with adding different ingredients to the basic soufflé mixture. This Baked Fish Soufflé recipe is a modern take on those traditional recipes, designed to be accessible for today's cooks while still retaining the elegance and sophistication of the original dishes.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Finely chop the fish.
  2. Melt the margarine, then add the flour and milk. Boil for 3 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped thyme, celery, lime juice, and fish.
  4. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time.
  5. Fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites.
  6. Transfer the mixture into a greased soufflé case or deep Pyrex dish.
  7. Bake in a preheated hot oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20 – 25 minutes or until brown and well risen.
  8. Serve immediately.

Variations

  • 1. Use different types of fish, such as salmon or cod, for varied flavors.
  • 2. Add cheese to the soufflé mixture for a richer taste.
  • 3. Incorporate herbs like dill or parsley for additional flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them; this will help achieve maximum volume.

2. Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the fish mixture to retain as much air as possible.

3. Grease your soufflé dish well to prevent sticking and to help the soufflé rise properly.

4. Do not open the oven door while the soufflé is baking, as the sudden change in temperature can cause it to fall.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Fish Soufflé with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple grain side like quinoa or rice to complete the meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the proper beating and folding of egg whites to achieve the soufflé's signature light and airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

2. Almond milk or soy milk can replace cow's milk for a dairy-free version.

3. Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for regular flour to make the dish gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the fish mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Beat and fold in the egg whites just before baking to ensure the soufflé rises properly.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soufflé in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the delicate flavors of the Baked Fish Soufflé.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Soufflés are best enjoyed fresh and do not reheat well, as they will lose their airy texture. However, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and repurposed into a fish salad or filling for sandwiches.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Fish Soufflé contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively light option that can fit into various dietary plans.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Fish Soufflé is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the flour and milk. Each serving contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on moderate carbohydrate diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the margarine and the egg yolks. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using low-fat margarine can help reduce the total fat content.

Proteins

Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, and eggs also contribute to the protein content of this dish. Each serving of Baked Fish Soufflé provides approximately 18 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D from the fish, calcium from the milk, and iron from the eggs. It also contains small amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are fish, eggs, and dairy. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Fish Soufflé is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in calories and can be a part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Baked Fish Soufflé is a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dish that combines the delicate flavors of fish with a light, airy texture. With its balanced nutrition profile and elegant presentation, it's a perfect choice for a special occasion or a nutritious weeknight dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a local farmer's market browsing through the fresh produce when I stumbled upon a small booth selling homemade cookbooks. As I flipped through the pages, one particular recipe caught my eye - Baked Fish Soufflé. The combination of flavors and textures seemed too good to resist, and I knew I had to try it.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to gather the ingredients. The recipe called for fresh white fish, eggs, milk, butter, flour, and a few other simple ingredients. As I started to prepare the dish, I couldn't help but think back to my childhood and how I learned to cook from my own grandmother.

My grandmother was a wonderful cook who always seemed to have a new recipe up her sleeve. She would spend hours in the kitchen, meticulously measuring and mixing ingredients to create the most delicious dishes. I would watch in awe as she worked her magic, and I knew that I wanted to be just like her when I grew up.

One summer, when I was around ten years old, my grandmother taught me how to make her famous apple pie. She showed me how to peel and slice the apples, mix the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, and roll out the flaky pie crust. As we worked together in the kitchen, she shared stories of her own childhood and the recipes she had learned from her mother and grandmother. I listened intently, soaking up every word and savoring every bite of that delicious apple pie.

As I grew older, I continued to hone my cooking skills, experimenting with new recipes and techniques. I never forgot the lessons my grandmother had taught me, and I always tried to infuse my dishes with the love and care she had instilled in me. Each time I cooked, I felt a connection to her and the generations of women who had come before us, passing down their culinary knowledge from one generation to the next.

And now, as I prepared to make the Baked Fish Soufflé for the first time, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for all the women who had inspired me along the way. I carefully followed the recipe, whisking the eggs, butter, and flour together until they formed a smooth batter. I gently folded in the flaked fish, adding a touch of lemon zest and fresh herbs for extra flavor.

As the soufflé baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled my kitchen, reminding me of all the meals I had shared with my family over the years. I set the table with my best china and poured myself a glass of wine, savoring the anticipation of tasting the dish for the first time. When the timer finally chimed, I pulled the soufflé out of the oven and marveled at its golden-brown crust and fluffy texture.

I took a bite, closing my eyes as the flavors danced on my tongue. The delicate fish melted in my mouth, while the creamy soufflé enveloped my senses in a warm embrace. It was perfection in every bite, a symphony of flavors and memories that made my heart swell with joy.

As I finished the last morsel, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had created something truly special. The Baked Fish Soufflé was more than just a recipe - it was a tribute to my grandmother and all the women who had shaped me into the cook I had become. And as I cleaned up the kitchen, I whispered a silent thank you to them all, knowing that their legacy would live on in every dish I cooked.

Categories

| Fish Recipes | Guyanese Meat Dishes | Guyanese Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Thyme Recipes |

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