A Breakfast Classic Reimagined – Crafting the Perfect Ham and Cheese Quiche
Indulge in the luxurious marriage of savory ham, creamy cheese, and delicate custard nestled within a golden, flaky crust with our Ham and Cheese Quiche. This breakfast classic transcends the ordinary, offering a symphony of flavors that elevate the morning dining experience. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to master the art of crafting the perfect ham and cheese quiche, exploring the origins, unraveling the ingredients, mastering the cooking process, and even venturing into keto and low-carb adaptations.
A Heritage of Flavor: The quiche, a French culinary creation, has become a global sensation, and the Ham and Cheese Quiche is a timeless variation cherished for its rich and satisfying profile. Originally hailing from the region of Lorraine, quiches have evolved into a versatile canvas for culinary creativity.
Ingredients:
For the Quiche Filling:
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Quiche Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Crust Creation:
- In a food processor, combine the flour and chilled, cubed butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water and continue pulsing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat and Roll:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish, trimming any excess and crimping the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Ham and Cheese Symphony:
- Evenly distribute the diced ham, Swiss cheese, and grated Parmesan over the prepared crust.
4. Custard Creation:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Pour this custard mixture over the ham and cheese filling.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures a perfectly set custard. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors.
Cooking Notes:
- Blind-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling helps maintain a crisp crust, preventing it from becoming soggy.
Variations:
Vegetarian Twist:
- Experiment with a vegetarian version by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling. This variation introduces a burst of color and additional flavors.
Asiago and Broccoli Elegance:
- Elevate the quiche by substituting Swiss cheese with Asiago and adding blanched broccoli florets to the filling. This variation offers a delightful blend of textures and a sophisticated flavor profile.
Keto Versions:
Keto Crust Brilliance:
- Replace the all-purpose flour in the crust with almond flour or a keto-friendly flour alternative. This adaptation ensures a low-carb base for your ham and cheese quiche.
Keto Creamy Custard:
- Use a mixture of heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk in place of whole milk to maintain a keto-friendly custard. Adjust the ratios to suit your preferences.
Low-Carb Version:
Low-Carb Crust Harmony:
- Opt for a low-carb crust using a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. This adaptation allows you to enjoy the quiche with reduced carbohydrate content.
Low-Carb Cheese Medley:
- Explore different low-carb cheese options such as cheddar or mozzarella to customize the flavor profile while keeping the carb count in check.
The Ham and Cheese Quiche is a culinary masterpiece that brings the elegance of French cuisine to your breakfast table. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, the result is a savory delight that transcends the ordinary. Share this breakfast classic with loved ones or savor it as a decadent morning treat, reveling in the symphony of flavors that only a perfectly crafted quiche can provide. Bon appétit!
