Quiche Lorraine Recipe: A Classic French Delight

A quiche lorraine is a savory pie filled with a rich custard made of eggs and cream, seasoned with onions, bacon, and sometimes cheese. This classic French dish has become popular worldwide due to its simplicity in preparation and the delicious combination of flavors.

The key ingredients you will need are:

• A pre-baked quiche shell
• 4 slices of smoked or unsmoked back bacon cut into small pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups of heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• (Optional: 2 tablespoons of grated cheese like Gruyère or Emmental for extra flavor)

Cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Yield is enough for 6 servings.

Preparation Process:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare Bacon and Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy. Drain excess fat from the pan and set aside. Sauté the chopped onions in the same pan for about five minutes or until they are softened.

How to Cook Quiche Lorraine Step-by-Step

Step 3: Assemble Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Add the bacon pieces and softened onions into the mixture.

If you are adding cheese, mix it in as well at this point.

Step 4: Bake the Quiche

Ladle the custard mixture evenly into the pre-baked quiche shell. Place on a baking sheet to catch any overflow and bake for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

While it is in the oven, check periodically if the quiche has set up properly by inserting a knife near the center – it should come out clean.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once done cooking, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool down for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer the quiche onto a plate. Serve warm or chilled; both are delightful experiences!

Tips & Variations:

To add more flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the cooking process. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon.

For those who enjoy stronger flavors, you could increase the number of eggs slightly while reducing the amount of cream accordingly for a richer texture and enhanced egg taste.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Total Fat: ~27g
• Saturated Fat: ~14g
• Cholesterol: ~250mg
• Sodium: ~800mg
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~6g
• Protein: ~14g

A quiche lorraine, with its comforting layers of creamy egg custard and savory meaty bacon, is not only a delicious meal but also one that can be prepared in advance. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as part of a light dinner menu.

Conclusion:

The quiche lorraine has become a favorite dish among many thanks to its versatile nature and ability to cater well to different tastes and dietary preferences. Its simplicity in preparation makes it ideal for home cooks looking to impress guests while keeping things straightforward. Whether you're having friends over or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to please all the senses!