Introduction
Bacon and onion quiche is a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for brunch or a light dinner. This savory tart combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sweet onions, and creamy eggs, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. Ideal for serving guests or enjoying as a comforting meal at home, this recipe is straightforward to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Shortcrust pastry (enough for one pie dish)
– Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
– Bacon (200g, chopped)
– Onions (2 large, thinly sliced)
– Eggs (3 large)
– Double cream (200ml)
– Cheddar cheese (100g, grated)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this bacon and onion quiche is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time to prepare the pastry and cook the filling ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The quiche takes about 40 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, including preparation and cooking, the recipe requires approximately 1 hour. This quiche serves 4 to 6 people, making it an ideal dish for small gatherings or leftovers for the next day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine 200g of plain flour and a pinch of salt. Add 100g of cold, diced butter and rub into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Add Water
Gradually mix in 2-3 tablespoons of cold water until the dough comes together.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Bacon and Onion
In a frying pan over medium heat, add chopped bacon and sliced onions. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the onions are soft and caramelized.
Roll Out the Pastry
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to fit a 23cm (9-inch) tart tin. Transfer the pastry to the tin and trim the edges.
Blind Bake the Pastry
Place a sheet of parchment paper over the pastry, fill with baking beans, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the paper and beans, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 200ml of cream, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Bacon and Onion
Remove the cooked bacon and onion mixture from the heat and distribute it evenly over the baked pastry base.
Combine and Pour
Pour the egg and cream mixture over the bacon and onion, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
You can add other vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage Instructions
Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh salad and a vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Blind baking
Blind baking is a crucial technique for ensuring your pastry is cooked evenly and has a crispy base. This involves pre-baking the pastry shell before adding the filling, often using baking beans to prevent it from puffing up.
Sautéing
Sautéing onions and bacon releases their flavors and caramelizes them, creating a rich base for the quiche. This technique involves cooking over medium heat with a small amount of fat until they are soft and golden.
Whisking
Whisking the eggs and cream together is essential to achieve a smooth and airy filling for the quiche. This technique incorporates air, which helps the filling to rise and gives it a light texture.
Seasoning
Seasoning the mixture properly enhances the overall flavor of the quiche. This technique involves adding salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices to taste before combining the ingredients.
Layering ingredients
Layering the sautéed onion and bacon evenly in the pastry creates beautiful distribution of flavors throughout the quiche. This technique ensures each slice boasts a balanced taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese in the quiche?
Yes, you can substitute different types of cheese according to your preference or what you have available, just make sure they melt well.
How do I store leftover quiche?
You can store leftover quiche in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
How long can I keep a baked quiche in the fridge?
A baked quiche can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s properly covered to prevent it from drying out.
Can I make the quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche filling and pastry ahead of time. It can be assembled and stored in the fridge before baking for a few hours.
What can I serve with the quiche?
Quiche pairs well with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The bacon and onion quiche is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and a rich, creamy texture, making it perfect for any time of day. It’s an excellent choice for brunch or as a comforting dinner option. This recipe showcases the potential of simple ingredients, transforming them into a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this quiche is sure to please anyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Cheese and Tomato Tart
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Spinach and Feta Pie
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Carmelized Onion and Goat Cheese Frittata
This frittata is another fantastic choice for breakfast or brunch, boasting the sweet flavors of caramelized onions complemented by creamy goat cheese.