Souffleed Omelet with Canadian Bacon and Gruyere Cheese

6 ounces sliced Canadian bacon, cut into bite-size pieces

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup heavy cream or 1/2 and 1/2

3 tablespoons flour

8 large eggs, beaten lightly

1/3 cup minced fresh basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 ounces freshly grated Gruyere cheese

In a flameproof 1 1/2 quart baking dish cook the bacon in the butter over moderately low heat for 5 minutes, or until it is golden, stir the mixture to coat the sides of the dish with the butter, and remove it from the heat. In a bowl whisk together the cream the flour, the eggs, the basil and the salt and pour the mixture into the dish. Sprinkle the mixture with the Gruyere cheese and bake it in a preheated 450 degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the omelet is puffed and golden. Serves 4 to 6.