Introduction

Quiche is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The Leek and Ham Quiche combines savory flavors with a creamy texture, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe emphasizes the delightful pairing of leeks and ham, all nestled in a flaky pie crust, ensuring a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pie crust:
– 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust

Filling:
– 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 200g of cooked ham, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated cheese (such as Swiss or Gruyère)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutmeg for added flavor

Prep Time

Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes. This allows you to prepare the ingredients and get the quiche ready for baking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 35 to 40 minutes. The total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour. This recipe yields one delicious quiche, serving 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Prepare the Leeks and Ham Filling

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Combine the Mixtures

Spread the leek and ham filling evenly over the prepared crust. Pour the egg mixture on top, ensuring the filling is well covered.

Bake the Quiche

Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the egg is set and the top is lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Quiche can be served with a simple green salad or as part of a brunch spread.

Storage Tips

Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month.

Variations

Feel free to modify the filling by adding cheese, different vegetables, or using cooked bacon instead of ham.

Cook techniques

Blind Baking

Blind baking is a technique used to pre-bake the pie crust before adding the filling. This helps to ensure that the crust remains crisp and doesn’t become soggy once the filling is added.

Layering Flavors

Start by sautéing the leeks and ham to develop their flavors. This step enhances the overall taste of the quiche.

Mixing Eggs and Cream

Whisking eggs with cream creates a rich custard base. Ensure the mixture is well combined for a smooth texture.

Pouring Technique

Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the filling to maintain the layers and prevent mixing.

Baking at the Right Temperature

Bake the quiche at the correct temperature to achieve a nicely set custard and a golden-brown crust.

FAQ

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, using a store-bought pie crust can save time and is a convenient option for this quiche.

What can I substitute for leeks?

You can substitute leeks with onions or shallots for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the quiche is done?

The quiche is done when the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, you can freeze the quiche. It’s best to freeze it after baking and allow it to cool completely before wrapping.

What other fillings can I use?

You can use a variety of fillings such as spinach, cheese, or other vegetables according to your preference.

Conclusion

The quiche with leeks and ham is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of ham with the subtle sweetness of leeks. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a satisfying meal, perfect for brunch or a quick dinner. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this quiche is sure to impress with its creamy texture and rich taste.

More recipes suggestions and combinations

Veggie Quiche

Try a veggie quiche by swapping out the ham for a mix of your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a lighter option.

Cheese Lovers Quiche

Add a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, goat cheese, and mozzarella to enhance the flavor and create a rich, cheesy quiche.

Smoked Salmon Quiche

Incorporate smoked salmon and cream cheese for a sophisticated twist, making it an ideal choice for a brunch gathering.

Herbed Potato Quiche

Mix in thinly sliced potatoes and fresh herbs like thyme and dill for a hearty and aromatic variation.

Quiche Lorraine

Prepare a classic Quiche Lorraine by using crispy bacon instead of ham for a traditional French treat.

Spicy Chorizo Quiche

For a kick, add spicy chorizo to your quiche, combining it with peppers and onions for a flavorful twist.

Breakfast Quiche

Make a breakfast quiche loaded with eggs, cheese, bacon, and a medley of breakfast vegetables like tomatoes and zucchini.

Savory Mushroom Quiche

Use sautéed mushrooms and herbs like parsley and sage for an earthier flavor profile that pairs well with a side salad.