Quiche Lorraine: A Classic Savory Pie with Swiss Cheese

Quiche Lorraine is a beloved French dish that has found its way into the hearts of many as a delightful brunch or dinner option. This savory pie showcases the rich flavors of Swiss cheese, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the custard filling. The combination of Swiss cheese, eggs, and cream creates a luxurious texture in this recipe.

Quiche Lorraine is a simple yet elegant dish that can be prepared with minimal effort but provides maximum satisfaction at the table. This recipe serves four people and takes approximately 50 minutes to prepare. The cooking time includes baking the quiche until it is set, which should take around 35-40 minutes.

To begin making your Quiche Lorraine, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). First, you will need a pastry crust; this can be purchased or homemade. For the filling, you will require:

• 4 large eggs
• 250ml of heavy cream
• 6 slices of smoked ham
• 300g of Swiss cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon of salt (optional)
• ½ teaspoon of pepper (optional)

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and add the cream. Mix well to combine. Then, crumble in the smoked ham into the mixture. Add the grated Swiss cheese, along with your chosen optional seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

Once you have prepared your filling, it's time to assemble the quiche. If using a store-bought crust, remove any packaging and transfer it to an oven-safe pie dish or tart pan. If making homemade pastry, roll out your dough and fit it into your chosen dish, ensuring that the edges are slightly thicker than the center.

Once you have placed the pastry in the dish, prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up while baking. Blind bake the pastry for about 10-12 minutes at 190°C (375°F). Once done, remove it from the oven and lower the temperature setting to 180°C (350°F).

After the pastry has cooled down slightly, pour in your custard mixture. Be sure not to overfill as the quiche will rise during baking. Place the quiche back into the oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until the filling is set. You can test this by gently shaking the dish; if it feels firm, then it's ready.

Allow your Quiche Lorraine to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. Serve with a side salad or fresh vegetables for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor. The rich egg and cheese custard paired with the smoky ham in this dish makes for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Quiche Lorraine can be enjoyed at various times, making it versatile enough to serve during both brunch and dinner. It pairs well with a variety of sides like fresh fruit, crunchy bread, or a simple green salad. If you're looking for some creative ways to serve your Quiche Lorraine, consider adding a few slices of prosciutto on top right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you need a quick yet impressive meal. The combination of savory and sweet elements in the filling makes this quiche an absolute treat that will surely please everyone at your table. With its rich texture and satisfying flavors, Quiche Lorraine stands as a classic favorite among those who appreciate good food.

For variations on this recipe, you could try adding other types of cheese or meats to suit your taste preferences. You might also experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling to create a unique flavor profile that suits your palette. Whichever way you decide to prepare it, Quiche Lorraine remains a timeless favorite for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

The simplicity of this dish allows for endless possibilities while maintaining its essence. So why not try making Quiche Lorraine at home today? With its delightful blend of Swiss cheese, eggs, cream, and ham, this dish is sure to become your new go-to recipe!