Quiche Lorraine

Quiche Lorraine: A Savory Delicacy with a Fascinating History

Who doesn't love a savory tart that combines delicious flavors and unique textures? The quiche is more than just a simple snack; it is a tale of culinary tradition that has evolved over time, spreading beyond its original borders. This captivating recipe for Quiche Lorraine, with delicious variations, will transform any meal into an unforgettable feast.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients for the basic dough (enough for 2 tarts with a diameter of 20-23 cm):
- 280 g flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 115 g vegetable fat (oil or lard)
- 115 g unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons ice water

For the Bacon Quiche:
- 8 slices of bacon (or smoked turkey pastrami)
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 285 ml heavy cream (or sour cream)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, ground, to taste
- A pinch of grated nutmeg

For the Spinach and Feta Quiche:
- 55 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 150 g fresh spinach
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 285 ml heavy cream (or sour cream)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, ground, to taste
- A pinch of grated nutmeg

Preparing the Dough:
1. Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. This will be the base of your tart, so make sure to use good quality flour that will provide the perfect texture.
2. Add the cubed butter and vegetable fat. Use a mixer or a food processor to quickly mix the ingredients until the mixture becomes sandy.
3. Beat the egg in a small bowl together with the cold water and vinegar. Pour this mixture over the flour and mix with a spatula or your hands until the dough starts to come together into a ball. If the dough is too dry, you can add a few drops of cold water.
4. Divide the dough into two balls and wrap them in plastic wrap. Let them rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky crust.
5. When you are ready to continue, take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out with a rolling pin on a floured surface, into a disc shape. Use plastic wrap on top to prevent sticking.

Preparing the Bacon Quiche:
1. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Roll out the dough and place it in a 23 cm tart pan. Prick it with a fork to prevent puffing.
2. Bake the dough for 15 minutes, then remove it and let it cool on a rack. This step helps achieve a crispy crust.
3. Adjust the oven temperature to 200 degrees Celsius. In a skillet, fry the bacon until crispy, then drain it on paper towels to remove excess fat.
4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
5. Sprinkle the fried bacon slices over the cooled dough, then pour the egg mixture on top. Bake the quiche for 30 minutes, or until golden and firm in the center.

Preparing the Spinach and Feta Quiche:
1. Follow the same process for the basic dough, but omit the bacon. Blanch the spinach for a few minutes, then drain it well.
2. Place the crumbled feta cheese at the bottom of the tart, followed by the spinach. Pour the egg mixture on top and bake according to the previous instructions.

Serving and Suggestions:
Your quiches are now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them warm or cold, alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch or as an appetizer at a party. A bottle of white wine or iced tea will perfectly complement these delights.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other ingredients? Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or even different types of cheese, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the quiche? Quiches can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
- What are the nutritional benefits? Quiches are an excellent source of protein due to the eggs and added ingredients. Spinach brings a good dose of iron and vitamins, while cheese adds calcium.

Final Notes:
Making Quiche Lorraine a part of your culinary repertoire will help you impress anyone, whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends. Whether you choose the bacon version or the vegetarian one with spinach and feta, each slice will bring joy and flavor. Enjoy!