Quiche Lorraine Recipe: A Classic French Pie with Ham

Quiche Lorraine is a classic French pie that has been cherished for its simplicity and versatility in the culinary world. It's often referred to as an "omelette in a tart shell," making it a delightful dish for both casual and formal gatherings alike. This recipe highlights the use of eggs, cream, and ham as key ingredients to create a rich and creamy filling that pairs perfectly with any type of crust. In this article, we will provide you with detailed steps on how to prepare this delicious quiche Lorraine, along with tips on customization options for your taste buds.

Preparation Time: 45 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 to 8 people

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pie crust (9 inches), pre-baked or store-bought
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 6 ounces cooked ham, finely diced

Instructions

To begin making your quiche Lorraine, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray if needed. If you are using a store-bought crust, ensure it has cooled sufficiently before adding the filling.

Begin by whisking together the eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard in a large bowl until well combined. Stir in the finely diced ham gently so as not to break apart the pieces too much. Pour this mixture into your pre-baked or slightly cooled store-bought pie crust.

Place the filled tart shell onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and slightly golden on top. To check if it's done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your quiche Lorraine is ready to be served.

Tips for a Perfect Quiche

1. Preheat the Oven: Ensuring that your oven reaches the appropriate temperature before placing the quiche inside ensures even baking and prevents any potential cold spots or overbaking at the edges.
2. Cooking Time: While 30 minutes is a good estimate, keep an eye on it. A quiche should never be undercooked as the eggs can pose health risks if not fully cooked through.
3. Temperature Control: If you're using fresh ham for this recipe, consider slicing it thinly and sautéing or grilling it briefly to ensure it's warm enough without overcooking. This also helps in maintaining a desirable texture within the quiche.

Cooking Variations

Quiche Lorraine is incredibly versatile, allowing for various ingredient combinations that suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

• Veggie Quiche: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Bacon Quiche: Swap out the ham for crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor boost.
• Vegetarian Option: For those who prefer plant-based meals, omitting the meat and adding additional vegetables can transform this into a satisfying vegetarian option.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional values may vary slightly based on ingredients used but generally speaking:

• Total Calories Per Serving: Approximately 350 calories per serving (without variations).
• Fat Content: 18 grams of fat.
• Sodium: Around 900 milligrams.

Conclusion

A well-prepared quiche Lorraine is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Whether you opt for traditional ham or explore one of our recommended variations, this dish remains a favorite among many. With its comforting flavors and straightforward preparation process, it serves as an excellent choice whether hosting friends over or simply enjoying at home.

Remember to store any leftovers properly in the refrigerator within two hours after preparing them to maintain freshness until your next mealtime!