Alsatian Quiche

Quiche Lorraine: A Savory Delicacy That's Easy to Make

When it comes to savory dishes, few can match the charm and unmistakable taste of a Quiche Lorraine. This rustic tart, with its mix of flavors and textures, has captured the hearts of many with its simplicity and versatility. Originating from French culinary tradition, Quiche Lorraine is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can create a feast for the senses. In this recipe, I will share all the necessary details to achieve a perfect quiche, with a crispy crust and a rich filling that will delight any table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 150 g flour
- 120 g cold butter (choose butter with 40% fat for a richer taste)
- 4 tablespoons cold water
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 100 g smoked ham (or bacon, kaiser; I used lean chicken pastrama)
- 1 small onion
- 100 g cheese (Gruyère, Emmental; I chose 80 g goat cheese and 20 g cheese)
- 150 g sour cream (I used a 12% fat-free version)
- 2 eggs
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg (to taste)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Crust
1. Prepare the ingredients: Put the butter and water in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter cut into cubes. Use the pulse function for a few seconds until the mixture becomes sandy.
3. Add the water: Start adding the water, tablespoon by tablespoon, until the dough comes together in a ball. It's normal for the dough to be sticky.
4. Shape the dough: With cold hands (run under cold water), roll the dough in plastic wrap, shaping it into a disc. Flatten it as much as possible.
5. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in cling film and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or 20 minutes in the freezer.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
1. Cut the ingredients: While the dough is chilling, cut the ham into strips or small cubes. Slice the onion into julienne.
2. Fry the ham: In a skillet over low heat, fry the ham without added fat until it becomes crispy. Remove it to paper towels to absorb excess fat.
3. Sauté the onion: In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion without burning it, until it becomes translucent.

Step 3: Assembling the Quiche
1. Prepare the pan: Choose a high-sided pan, at least 4 cm deep, with a diameter of 20 cm. Line the bottom with parchment paper, cutting it into a perfect round shape. A trick for cutting the paper: fold it a few times, then cut the corners to make a circle.
2. Roll out the dough: Flour the work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough into a round sheet about 25 cm in diameter. Roll it onto the rolling pin and gently place it in the pan, raising it up the sides by about 4 cm.
3. Add the ingredients: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sour cream. Add the spices, but do not add more salt as the ham is already salty. Place the fried ham and sautéed onion in the pan, then sprinkle the cheese on top. Pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the filling.

Step 4: Baking
1. Bake the quiche: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the quiche for 35 minutes or until it is golden and firm. If you want a browner crust, move the pan to the lowest rack of the oven and leave it under the grill for 2 minutes.
2. Cooling: Allow the quiche to cool before slicing. It can be served warm or cold, and the flavors intensify as it cools.

Practical Tips
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. Goat cheese adds a distinct flavor, while cheddar offers a richer note.
- Creative additions: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the quiche healthier and more colorful.
- Serving: The quiche pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light lemon dressing. Additionally, a glass of white wine or iced tea would perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
Quiche Lorraine provides a balance of protein from eggs and sour cream, healthy fats from butter, and a significant calcium intake from cheese. By adding vegetables, you will increase the vitamin and mineral content, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, if you want a quick version, you can use store-bought pâte brisée.
2. How can I store the quiche? Keep it covered in the fridge for 3-4 days, and you can reheat it in the oven.
3. Can the quiche be frozen? Yes, the quiche can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain the texture of the crust.

I invite you to try this Quiche Lorraine recipe, and may each bite bring you joy and culinary satisfaction. It is a simple recipe, yet with a remarkable impact, perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: CRUST (pâte brisée) 150 g flour 120 g cold butter (40% fat used) 4 tablespoons cold water FILLING 100 g smoked ham or bacon, kaiser, etc. (replaced with lean chicken pastrama) 1 small onion 100 g Gruyere cheese, Emmental, etc. (replaced with 80g goat cheese and 20g cheese) 150 g sour cream (used a 12% fat reduced one) 2 eggs salt, pepper, nutmeg

 Tags:  alsatian quiche cheese delaco