Quiche Lorraine, with its flaky crust, creamy filling, and savory bacon, is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Originating from the Lorraine region of France, this delectable dish has become a favorite in households around the world. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the best Quiche Lorraine right in your own kitchen, perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, then flatten it into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Roll Out the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared dish and press it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
Pre-Bake the Crust:
- Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment paper, then return the crust to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
- Spread the cooked and crumbled bacon evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the bacon.
Make the Custard:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the custard mixture over the bacon and cheese in the prepared crust, making sure it is evenly distributed.
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Quiche Lorraine warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of this classic French dish!
Tips for Success:
- For a flakier crust, make sure your butter and water are very cold, and handle the dough as little as possible.
- You can customize the filling by adding sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, or swapping the bacon for ham or cooked sausage.
- Quiche Lorraine is delicious served hot or cold, making it perfect for picnics, brunches, or packed lunches.
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Quiche Lorraine with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this classic French dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
FAQs About Quiche Lorraine
Can I make Quiche Lorraine ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Quiche Lorraine ahead of time. You can assemble the quiche and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it the next day. Alternatively, you can fully bake the quiche, let it cool, and then refrigerate it. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I freeze Quiche Lorraine?
Quiche Lorraine can be frozen either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the quiche, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. If freezing after baking, allow the quiche to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen quiche in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Quiche Lorraine?
Quiche Lorraine pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, or crusty bread. It’s also delicious served alongside brunch favorites like hash browns or breakfast potatoes.
Can I make Quiche Lorraine without bacon?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Quiche Lorraine by omitting the bacon or substituting it with other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
How do I know when Quiche Lorraine is done baking?
Quiche Lorraine is done baking when the custard is set and the top is golden brown. You can test for doneness by gently shaking the pan – the center of the quiche should jiggle slightly, but not appear liquidy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that combines a flaky pastry crust with a rich and creamy custard filling. With its savory bacon and cheese, this timeless recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch. Whether served hot or cold, Quiche Lorraine is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious flavor and elegant presentation. So why not treat yourself to a slice of this delightful dish and experience the culinary delights of French cuisine?