Quiche Lorraine Recipe: A Classic French Delight

 Rich, savory, and undeniably comforting, Quiche Lorraine is a beloved dish that hails from the Lorraine region of France. This iconic recipe combines a flaky, buttery crust with a creamy, custard-like filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and lardons (or bacon). It's a testament to how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Whether enjoyed warm for brunch, served with a crisp salad for lunch, or reheated for a quick dinner, Quiche Lorraine has earned its spot as a favorite around the world.

Time to roll up your sleeves and bring this French classic to life in your very own kitchen!

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, diced
• 3-4 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

• 6 oz (170g) bacon or lardons, diced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (125ml) milk
• 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt (or more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup (100g) grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Optional:

• 2-3 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Prepare the dough: Combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the diced cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
2. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough!
3. Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for a flaky crust.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it fits your tart pan (about 9 inches/23 cm in diameter). Press it gently into the pan and trim the edges.
2. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with baking weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the paper and weights, and bake for another 5 minutes or until slightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Fry the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the cooked bacon evenly over the baked crust. Add the grated Gruyère cheese.
2. Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese, filling the crust just below the top edge.
3. Carefully transfer the quiche to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
4. Allow the quiche to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing, as this helps the custard firm up for clean slices.

Tips for Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, leeks, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese swaps: If you can’t get Gruyère, use cheddar, feta, or any of your favorite melty cheeses.

Serving Suggestions

Quiche Lorraine is best served warm, paired with a fresh side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, you could pair it with roasted potatoes or a bowl of soup. It’s also delightful served at room temperature, which makes it an excellent choice for entertaining or picnics.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Reheating tips: For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer to enjoy a crispier crust. The microwave works too but might make the crust a bit soggy.

Quiche Lorraine is comfort food at its finest—satisfying, versatile, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special. With a little preparation and care, you'll have a dish that feels as elegant as dining in a French café. Bon appétit!