Ingredients
| 1¾ | cups all-purpose flour |
| 1 | teaspoon baking powder |
| 1 | teaspoon kosher salt |
| 2 | eggs, separated |
| 1 | cup whole milk |
| ½ | cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled |
| ¾ | cup cold water, plus a bit more, if needed |
| 1 | cup grated extra sharp cheddar cheese or pecorino cheese |
| ¾ | cup diced HORMEL® CURE 81® ham |
| ¼ | cup maple syrup or honey, if desired |
| 1 | Calabrian chili pepper (in oil), if desired |
Directions
Heat waffle iron.
In small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In medium bowl, whisk egg whites by hand or with a mixer until soft peaks form. Set aside.
In large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolk-milk mixture until combined. Slowly add melted butter to the mixture and whisk until combined. Add cold water and whisk until combined. If batter is too thick, add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it is not too thick or too thin.
With rubber spatula, gently fold cheese and ham into the batter. Gently fold beaten egg whites into batter until combined.
Prepare waffles according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.
*Bonus Tip: Finely chop one Calabrian chili and add to ¼ cup of honey or maple syrup for a deliciously spicy addition to this savory waffle!
Chef’s Note: Keep waffles warm by transferring to a lined baking tray in a 200°F oven.