Chef's Choice - Derek's Culinary Casual: Derek Barnes' gougeres

Derek Barnes' Gougeres

4 cups hot water

2 cups butter

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon sugar

4 cups flour

16 eggs

2 and 1/2 cups white cheddar

1 and 1/4 tablespoons dry mustard

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 egg (for egg wash)

2 cups grated parmesan cheese

1. Bring water, butter, salt and sugar to a boil. Add flour and stir until dough forms a ball, then transfer the mixture to a stand mixer, or place in a bowl and use a hand held mixer.

2. Mix on low speed, adding eggs one at a time, then slowly add the cheese, mustard and cayenne pepper.

3. Place the gougére batter in a container and allow to cool for 1 hour. Place parchment paper on 2 cookie sheets and place small scoops of batter onto the paper, 3/4 of an inch apart.

4. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Bake for 35 minutes, then take the gougeres out of oven. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle the grated parmesan on top. Continue to bake for 5 more minutes. Serve immediately.