Preheat the oven to 150° C (300° F)
Cooking time: About 45 minutes

If you prefer to make one large soufflé, allow 50-60 minutes.

These little soufflés are perfect for Sunday brunch or paired with a salad for a light meal.

1. Sauté the mushrooms in the butter; drain, reserving the liquid, and set aside.
2. Add the flour to the cooking juices as you would to make a roux; whisk in the milk; cook over moderate heat until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from the heat; season with salt and pepper; add the cheese and stir until melted; stir in the mushrooms and ham.
4. In a bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks with the cream of tartar.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks for a few minutes.
6. Pour the ham-mushoom-cheese mixture over the egg yolks and blend well.
7. Gently fold in the egg whites.
8. Pour the mixture into 6 buttered ramekins; bake in a preheated oven for 45-50 minutes - insert the tip of a knife to check for doneness, as for a cake. Be careful not to overcook, otherwise the soufflés will be dry. Serve immediately.

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Photo: The Other White Meat