Quiche Lorraine: A Classic French Savory Pie with a Creamy Egg Custard Filling and Smoky Bacon

Quiche Lorraine: A Classic French Savory Pie with a Creamy Egg Custard Filling and Smoky Bacon

Quiche Lorraine is a beloved French dish that combines a rich and creamy egg custard with the smoky flavor of bacon, all encased in a buttery and flaky pie crust. This versatile pie makes for a delightful brunch, lunch, or light dinner option.

Ingredients ###:
For the crust:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
– 2-4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:
– 6 slices bacon
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions ###

1. Prepare the crust:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the chilled butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling:
1. In a medium skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Assemble the quiche:
1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and grated Gruyère cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese in the crust.
4. Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.

4. Serve:
1. Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Quiche Lorraine, a timeless dish that is sure to delight your taste buds with its savory and comforting flavors!