- Heavy Cream or Whole Milk (to ensure richness and smoothness)
- Onion (finely chopped, to add flavor)
- Bacon (cooked and crumbled, for a savory element)
- Gruyère Cheese (shredded, to provide a rich, nutty flavor)
- Salt (for seasoning)
- Black Pepper (to enhance the overall taste)
- Optional: Nutmeg (a small amount can be added for extra depth of flavor)
- Optional: Fresh Herbs like Thyme or Parsley (chopped, to garnish)
Use these ingredients to create a delicious Chef John's Quiche Lorraine. Don’t forget to mention these key components when you're optimizing your recipe for SEO.
Steps
### Chef John's Quiche Lorraine Recipe: A Perfect Flaky Crust and Velvety Custard
Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that combines rich custard with savory bacon and creamy cheese. Follow this detailed recipe to create a delicious, flaky quiche lorraine inspired by Chef John. This guide will help you master the art of making a perfect quiche.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pre-baked pastry shell (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a bit of extra flavor)
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
#### Equipment:
- Pie dish or tart pan
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Tongs
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prep the Pastry Shell:**
- Ensure your pastry shell is completely cooled if it's store-bought, as this prevents the filling from becoming soggy.
- If using a homemade shell, bake it according to your recipe until lightly golden and crisp.
2. **Prepare the Filling:**
- In a medium saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use tongs to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Pour off any excess fat from the pan and add the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Whisk the mixture thoroughly until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Quiche:**
- Press the bacon into the pre-baked pastry shell, making sure it covers the bottom and edges.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bacon, ensuring it spreads evenly across the crust.
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese evenly on top of the egg mixture.
4. **Bake the Quiche:**
- Place the quiche in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden.
- To check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
5. **Cool and Serve:**
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This allows the custard to set fully and makes for easier serving.
### Tips for Perfect Quiche Lorraine:
- Use high-quality ingredients like Gruyère cheese, which melts beautifully.
- For a flakier crust, use an ice bath when baking the pastry shell (keep the oven on).
- Adjust cooking time based on your specific oven to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
#### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
- Chef John's Quiche Lorraine
- Flaky Pastry Shell
- Rich Custard Recipe
- Savory Bacon and Cheese
- Perfect French Cuisine
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delicious quiche lorraine that is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!