Spinach And Cheddar Soufflé À La Barefoot Contessa - cooking recipe

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
1 cup scalded milk
1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling
1/2 cup grated aged cheddar cheese, lightly packed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted plus extra for greasing dish (or Margarine)
4 extra-large egg yolks, separated at room temperature
5 extra large egg whites, separated at room temperature
1 small onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F
Spray inside surfaces of 8\" x 8 cup souffle dishes or other 8 inch by 4 inch or higher bake able pot/casserole, then \"flour\" with the grated parmesan or other finely grated cheese. (this will give souffle traction to rise. If needed sides can be extended by wrapping either bakers parchment or aluminum foil around pan to increase height.
If using foil, treat as the pan sides. souffle will double in volume!
In small saucepan, melt butter, add the diced onion, and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
With wooden spoon, gradually stir in flour and cook stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
OFF the heat, whisk in the hot milk, nutmeg, cayenne, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, for one minute, until smooth and thick.
OFF the heat, but while still hot, mix in the egg yolks.
Stir in the Cheddar, the Parmesan and the spinach and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Put the egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachement.
Beat on low speed for one miinute, on medium speed for one minute, then finally on high speed until firm, glossy speaks are formed.
Whisk one-quarter of the egg whites into the cheese sauce to lighten and then fold in the rest.
Pour into the prepared souffle dish, then smooth the top.
Draw a large circle on top with the spatula and place in the middle of the oven helps the souffle eise evenly.
Turn the temperature down to 375\u00b0F.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes (don't peek) until puffed and brown.
Serve immediately.