Easy Quiche Lorraine Recipe: A Classic French Dish Made Simple
The classic French Quiche Lorraine is often perceived as a complicated dish, reserved for experienced bakers. But fear not! This easy Quiche Lorraine recipe will guide you through creating this delicious savory tart with minimal fuss. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for any skill level.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a warm, subtle flavor)
- 4 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (or a blend of Swiss and cheddar)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is designed for simplicity and ease of execution. Follow these steps for a perfect Quiche Lorraine every time.
Making the Crust:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax resulting in a more tender crust.
- Roll and Bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the plate, trim the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Blind bake the crust for 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or until lightly golden. This prevents a soggy bottom.
Assembling and Baking the Quiche:
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Add the Bacon and Cheese: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon and grated cheese.
- Pour into Crust: Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown. The center should be just slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips for Quiche Perfection:
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry quiche. Start checking for doneness around 35 minutes.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your quiche will be enhanced by using high-quality bacon and cheese.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients to your quiche, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or spinach.
- Make it ahead: Quiche Lorraine can be made a day ahead and reheated.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of crusty bread. Enjoy! This easy Quiche Lorraine recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more formal brunch. The delicious combination of flaky crust, savory bacon, and creamy egg custard is sure to impress your guests. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this timeless classic!