Quiche Lorraine

Quiche Lorraine - A Savory Delicacy with a Creamy History

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

If you are looking for a classic, versatile, and flavorful dish, Quiche Lorraine is the perfect choice! This savory tart, with a flaky crust and rich filling, is a delicious combination of flavors that has won the hearts of many over time. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is known to be a traditional recipe, often served as an appetizer or main course.

Its fascinating history takes us back to medieval times when people prepared tarts with various fillings. Today, Quiche Lorraine has transformed into a symbol of refined gastronomy, perfect for brunches, elegant dinners, or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 400 g of flour
- 200 g of butter
- 2 whole eggs
- a pinch of salt
- cold water (as needed)

For the filling:
- 170 g of smoked bacon
- 70 g of ham
- 25 g of butter
- 100 g of white onion
- 50 g of green onion

For the binder:
- 400 ml of cream (32% fat)
- 100 g of grated cheese
- 5 whole eggs

Tips for perfect ingredients:
- Choose high-quality butter, which will add a rich flavor to the crust.
- Smoked bacon and ham are essential for giving the filling an intense flavor. You can experiment with different types of meat, such as bacon or sausage, to personalize your recipe.
- Rich cream will provide a creamy texture, but you can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Cheese can be replaced with goat cheese or feta cheese for a more distinct taste.

Preparing the crust:

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This will help achieve a fine and airy texture.
2. Add the cold butter, cut into cubes, and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles fine sand. This process is called "blending" and is essential for achieving a flaky crust.
3. Add the eggs and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous. If it's too tough, add a little cold water to soften it.
4. Once you have an elastic dough, form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out the dough and prevent it from cracking during baking.

Preparing the filling:

1. Cut the bacon and ham into small cubes, and slice the white and green onions into rounds.
2. In a skillet, add the butter and a little oil. Heat over medium heat, then add the white onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the bacon and continue cooking until it becomes crispy. Remove the ingredients onto a paper towel to absorb excess fat.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the ham for a few minutes, then remove and let cool.

Preparing the binder:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs well with the cream and grated cheese. Mix everything until it becomes a homogeneous mixture. This is the base that will bind all the ingredients together.

Assembling the Quiche:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Transfer the dough into a tart pan, making sure to cover the edges well.
3. Prick the dough with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking. Bake the dough in the oven for 15 minutes until it becomes lightly golden.
4. Remove the dough from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. Evenly place the mixture of onion, bacon, and ham on top of the dough, then carefully pour the cream and egg binder.
6. If you have leftover dough, you can cut it into thin strips and place them on top of the filling, creating a decorative pattern.
7. Bake the quiche in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the mixture is well set and the surface turns golden-brown.

Serving and suggestions:

Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing it. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature! Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light lemon dressing to add a pleasant contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Yes, you can add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, depending on your preferences. Just make sure to sauté them before adding to the filling.

- Can I prepare the quiche in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and filling a day ahead and then assemble and bake them on the desired day.

- What drinks pair well with Quiche Lorraine?
A dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with the flavors of the quiche. Additionally, fresh lemonade or winter tea can be excellent alternatives.

Nutritional benefits:

Quiche Lorraine is a protein-rich dish due to the eggs and cheese, while the cream provides healthy fats. The bacon and ham add a unique taste, but remember to consume in moderation, considering the caloric content.

Approximate calories per serving: 350-400 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations:

- Replace the bacon and ham with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to achieve unique flavors.

Quiche Lorraine is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that brings people and stories together. So invite your friends and family to join the table and enjoy this delicacy together. Bon appétit!