By Hand:
Separate the Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, placing the whites in one bowl and the yolks in another.
Whip the Egg Whites: Use a hand whisk to whip the egg whites until firm peaks form. Firm peaks mean the egg whites will stand up straight when the whisk is lifted.
Stir the Yolks: Use a fork to lightly beat the egg yolks until smooth.
Step 2: Make the Soufflé Base
Combine Yolks and Whites: Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the egg yolks using a spatula. This helps to lighten the yolks and makes it easier to combine the rest.
Fold Quickly: Add the remaining whipped egg whites to the yolk mixture and fold gently but quickly. The folding technique is important to maintain the airiness of the eggs, so avoid stirring or mixing too vigorously.
Tip: Some chefs suggest folding the yolks into the whites rather than the whites into the yolks to preserve the fluffiness better. Try both methods to see which works best for you.
Step 3: Cook the Soufflé Base
Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick pan over low heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Allow the oil to heat gently.
Add the Soufflé Base: Once the oil is heated, pour the soufflé mixture into the pan. Immediately cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat and cook for about three minutes.
Step 4: Add Butter and Optional Ingredients
Check for Bubbles: When you see bubbles forming on the surface of the soufflé, remove the lid.
Lift the Soufflé: Use a large turner or spatula to gently lift the soufflé from the bottom of the pan.
Add Butter: Place the salted butter under the soufflé, allowing it to melt and coat the underside of the omelet. This adds richness and prevents sticking.
Optional Additions: If you like, now is the time to sprinkle on some cheese flakes and minced green onions for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Remove from Pan: Once the butter has melted and the soufflé is set but still soft, carefully slide or fold the omelet out of the pan onto a plate.
Fold and Serve: For a traditional presentation, fold the omelet in half before serving. Enjoy your fluffy, delicate soufflé omelet right away!
Tips for the Perfect Soufflé Omelet
Use Fresh Eggs: The fresher the eggs, the better the soufflé. Fresh eggs whip up better and hold their structure longer.
Keep it Low and Slow: Cooking the omelet on low heat ensures that it cooks evenly without burning or deflating.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the yolks to keep as much air as possible in the mixture, which is key to a fluffy omelet.
Serve Immediately: Soufflé omelets deflate quickly, so serve them right away to enjoy the best texture and taste.
