These savory puffs may be served as an hors d'oeuvre or as an accompaniment to soups, stews, meats, and poultry.

Parmesan Puffs

1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup water
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. In a small heavy saucepan combine the milk, water, the butter, and the salt and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium, add the flour all at once, and beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it leaves the side of the pan and forms a ball.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, whisk in the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the Parmesan and pepper to taste.
3. Drop the batter in 8 mounds on a buttered baking sheet and bake the puffs in the upper third of a preheated 400°F (205°C) oven for 20 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden. May be stored overnight in an airtight container.

Makes 8 puffs.