Gougères

Gougères, a cream puff-like pastry filled with cheese, are a delightful and versatile treat that can be baked or fried to perfection. These crispy, light, and cheesy fritters make for excellent finger food and are sure to please any crowd. The dough used for gougères can accommodate various ingredients, allowing for endless flavor combinations. For instance, you can substitute minced cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for the cheese in the dough, adding a unique twist to these delectable bites.

MAKES: 6 to 8 servings

TIME: About 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups (about 7 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup freshly grated Emmental, Gruyère, Cantal, or cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan or other hard cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking the gougères or heat oil for frying if opting for the fried version.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, butter, and salt over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir until the butter melts.
3. Add the flour all at once to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until the dough holds together in a ball. This usually takes about 5 minutes or less.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the eggs one at a time, beating hard after each addition. Use an electric mixer or be prepared for a bit of manual mixing.
5. Stop beating when the mixture becomes glossy. Stir in the grated cheese, combining it well with the dough.
6. If baking the gougères, drop teaspoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet. Leave enough space between each to allow for expansion. Bake for approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until the gougères turn light brown.
7. If frying the gougères, heat at least 2 inches of oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Drop teaspoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning once if necessary, until the gougères become lightly browned.
8. Whether baked or fried, remove the gougères from the oven or oil and drain them on paper towels or paper bags to remove excess oil.
9. Serve the gougères immediately while they are still hot and crispy. Alternatively, you can keep them warm in a low oven for up to 30 minutes.

Gougères are versatile and delicious cheese puffs that can be enjoyed as appetizers or snacks. Get creative with your flavor combinations and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness of these delightful treats.

Whether baked or fried, gougères are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a snack. Their light and cheesy nature makes them an irresistible option for any occasion. Get creative with your flavor variations and savor these delectable bites.