Quiche Parisienne
Introduction to Quiche Parisienne
The Quiche Parisienne is a classic French dish that has gained international fame for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This savory tart, originating from the region of Lorraine in north-eastern France, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Traditionally made with a simple custard filling of eggs and cream, the dish has evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile favorite in kitchens worldwide.
The word "quiche" is derived from the German word "kuchen," meaning cake. While the most famous version is the Quiche Lorraine, known for its bacon and cheese filling, the Quiche Parisienne adds a touch of elegance with the inclusion of ham. This version is popular in the bustling city of Paris and is celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients
For our perfect Quiche Parisienne, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 200g of ham, diced
- 1 cup of grated Gruyere cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
The foundation of any good quiche is a flaky, buttery pie crust. You can choose to make this from scratch or purchase a pre-made version. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
If making the crust from scratch, combine flour, a pinch of salt, and chilled butter and blend until you achieve a crumbly texture. Gradually add water until the dough forms. Roll out the dough and fit it into your pie dish. Trim any excess dough and use a fork to prick the bottom to prevent bubbling.
Step 2: Precook the Crust
Place the pie crust in the oven for about 10 minutes to ensure it is partially cooked. This step guarantees a crispy base that will not become soggy once the wet ingredients are added. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, lightly sauté the diced ham until golden. This will enhance its flavor in the quiche. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, salt, and nutmeg. Stir in the sautéed ham and grated Gruyere cheese. Add freshly ground black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly throughout. Ensure that the ham and cheese are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Baking the Quiche
Bake the quiche in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. If the crust edges brown too quickly, shield them with aluminum foil. Check the doneness of the quiche by inserting a knife into the center – if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Enjoying Your Quiche Parisienne
Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing. This will enable easier cutting and better flavor. Serve your Quiche Parisienne warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine.
For more precise cooking, use this cooking timer to ensure perfect results each time.
As you savor your creation, know that you are partaking in a beloved culinary tradition that has delighted generations of food lovers. Bon appétit!