Chef John s Asparagus Souffle

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup cold milk

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

½ clove garlic, minced

4 eggs, separated

½ cup grated sharp white Cheddar cheese

Cook asparagus in a saucepan of boiling water until bright green but still crisp, about 2 minutes. Transfer asparagus to ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour and stir until mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, about 2 minutes.

Whisk milk into butter-flour mixture; bring to a simmer and cook until thick, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and cayenne pepper.

Place milk mixture, garlic, and asparagus in a blender and puree until smooth.

Pour asparagus mixture into a large bowl; stir in egg yolks and Cheddar cheese.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C)

Generously butter 4 (6-ounce) ramekins

Beat egg whites in a large glass or metal mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Lift your beater or whisk straight up: the egg whites will form soft mounds rather than a sharp peak

Stir half of egg whites into asparagus cheese mixture until just combined. Gently fold remaining egg whites into mixture.

Fill prepared ramekins about 3/4 full and place on a baking sheet; bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes