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Quiche Recipe





Savory Quiche Recipe

Description

Quiche is a savory pie that has won hearts around the world with its rich, creamy filling and versatile nature. Originating from France, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Its unique blend of eggs, cheese, and a variety of fillings makes it a delightful and customizable meal. This recipe guides you through creating a delicious quiche with a buttery crust and a luscious filling, suitable for any occasion.

Ingredients – Quiche Recipe

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions Step-by-Step for Making Quiche Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Ice Water:
    • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Roll Out the Dough:
    • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges if desired. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Cook the Bacon and Onion:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Egg Custard:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. Stir in the shredded Gruyère cheese, cooked spinach, bacon, and onion. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Quiche

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Fill the Crust:
    • Pour the egg mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
  3. Bake:
    • Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  4. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations for Quiche Recipe

Tips for Perfect Quiche

  • Prevent Soggy Crust:
    • To avoid a soggy bottom, you can blind bake the crust. After rolling out the dough and placing it in the pie dish, line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, and bake for another 5 minutes before adding the filling.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients:
    • Freshly cooked vegetables and quality cheese enhance the flavor of the quiche. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
  • Adjust the Baking Time:
    • Depending on your oven, the baking time may vary. Keep an eye on the quiche during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Variations – Quiche Recipe

  • Vegetarian Quiche:
    • Substitute the bacon with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Sauté the vegetables until tender before adding them to the egg mixture.
  • Seafood Quiche:
    • Add cooked shrimp, crab meat, or smoked salmon to the filling for a seafood twist. Complement with herbs like dill or chives.
  • Cheese Quiche:
    • Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, feta, or goat cheese. Mix and match to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Herb-Infused Quiche:
    • Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Quiche Recipe

Origins of Quiche

Quiche is often associated with French cuisine, but its origins can be traced back to Germany. The word “quiche” comes from the German word “kuchen,” meaning cake. The dish originated in the medieval kingdom of Lothringen, now known as Lorraine, France. The original “Quiche Lorraine” was an open pie with a filling of egg and cream custard with smoked bacon.

Evolution of the Recipe

Over time, the recipe for quiche has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and flavors. The addition of cheese became popular in the 1950s, transforming the dish into the versatile meal we know today. The classic Quiche Lorraine remains a favorite, but numerous variations have emerged, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients.

Cultural Significance

Quiche has become a staple in many households due to its versatility and ease of preparation. It is commonly served at brunches, picnics, and parties. The dish’s ability to be served hot or cold makes it a convenient choice for various occasions. Its presence in French cuisine has also made it a symbol of culinary sophistication.

Interesting Facts – Quiche Recipe

  • International Appeal:
    • Quiche is enjoyed worldwide, with each region putting its unique spin on the dish. In Italy, for example, a similar dish called “torta salata” is made with different fillings.
  • Perfect for Leftovers:
    • Quiche is an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Its flexibility allows for creativity in the kitchen.
  • Culinary Versatility:
    • The basic quiche recipe can be adapted for sweet versions, using ingredients like fruits, nuts, and sweet custards.

The Science Behind the Dish

The magic of quiche lies in its delicate balance of eggs and cream, which creates a custard-like texture when baked. The proteins in the eggs coagulate during baking, trapping air and creating a light, fluffy texture. The fat in the cream adds richness and moisture, preventing the quiche from becoming dry. The crust provides a contrasting texture, offering a crispy base that complements the soft filling.