Quiche Lorraine: A Classic French Savory Pie

Quiche Lorraine, a savory custard pie with a flaky pastry crust and a filling of cooked pork belly, onions, and cheese, has been a favorite in French cuisine for centuries. This versatile dish is easy to prepare and can be adapted based on your taste preferences. Whether you're a beginner chef or an experienced cook, this quiche recipe will delight everyone at the table.

The cooking time for this quiche is approximately 1 hour, with about 20 minutes spent pre-baking the crust and around 35-40 minutes needed to bake the custard. This makes it a perfect lunch or brunch option that can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 package (about 9 ounces) pork belly slices, cooked and diced into small pieces
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Fresh chives for garnish

Preparation:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. For the pastry crust, roll out your pie dough on a floured surface. Transfer it into a 9-inch quiche dish and trim any excess dough around the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and place in the oven to bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.

3. While the crust is baking, prepare your custard mixture by beating together eggs, cream, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Once the pastry crust has finished pre-baking, remove it from the oven and spread the melted butter over its surface. Pour the custard mixture into the hot pastry shell.

4. In a skillet, cook the onion slices until they are soft but not browned. Stir in the cooked pork belly pieces to heat them through thoroughly before sprinkling them over the custard inside the quiche crust. Finally, cover with shredded cheese.

5. Bake your quiche for about 35-40 minutes or until set in the center when you insert a knife—there should be no runny egg mixture at the core.

6. Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chives to add color and flavor to your presentation.

This classic dish is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can experiment by substituting some of the ingredients based on what's available in your pantry or local market. For example, you could replace the pork belly with prosciutto, ham, or even bacon for a different twist.

If you're looking to make this meal healthier without compromising taste, consider using less cheese and adding more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Alternatively, try substituting part of the heavy cream and milk with low-fat alternatives like skimmed milk or half-and-half while ensuring that the custard still sets properly.

To serve Quiche Lorraine, it's best enjoyed warm. Slice the pie into wedges and place on individual plates, garnished as mentioned earlier. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

For those who want to explore variations beyond just the standard ingredients, consider adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the overall taste of your quiche. Another delightful addition would be a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit more heat.

Quiche Lorraine is an excellent choice for both casual dinners and special occasions because it can cater to various dietary needs through simple adjustments. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or alongside some crusty bread, making it a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Cooking this dish in advance allows you to save time on busy days. Simply prepare the filling components during one evening and assemble the quiche early in the morning before your guests arrive. This way, all you need to do is pop it into the oven just before serving.

Quiche Lorraine's simplicity combined with its rich flavors ensures that this meal remains popular across generations of home cooks. With a little creativity and practice, anyone can master creating their own perfect version of this beloved classic French dish!