If you're looking for a dish that's both comforting and nutritious, Broccoli Quiche might just be your perfect choice. Not only is it a delightful blend of savory custard and tender vegetables, but it also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients, making it a staple for any cook looking to impress with minimal effort. Today, let's dive into making a simple yet delicious broccoli quiche that brings the warmth of homemade goodness to your table.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 2-3 tbsp ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Preparation Steps:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle ice water over the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, tossing until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
🍽️ Note: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust.
2. Preheat Oven and Blind Bake Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie dish.
- Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim any overhang, and crimp the edges.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to color.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Let it cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Stir in the cheese and cooled broccoli.
4. Fill and Bake:
- Remove the pie weights and parchment paper from the crust.
- Pour the egg mixture into the crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and slightly golden on top.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
🔥 Note: Overcooking can make the quiche dry. Look for the center to just set for the perfect texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Broccoli: Rich in fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Eggs: An excellent source of protein and essential vitamins.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, but watch portion sizes for calorie control.
Creating a broccoli quiche from scratch not only fills your home with a wonderful aroma but also offers you a dish that can be customized to various tastes. The adaptability of quiche means you can play with different cheeses, herbs, or even swap broccoli for other veggies. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this dish combines the comfort of home cooking with the nutrition of fresh ingredients. Enjoy the process of making and the joy of sharing this delicious homestyle pie with family and friends.
Can I make the quiche crust ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the crust in advance. Simply make the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for longer storage, thawing it in the refrigerator before use.
How do I know when the quiche is done?
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A quiche is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. You can test with a knife; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I make this quiche vegetarian?
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Of course! Simply use a vegetarian cheese or skip the cheese altogether and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Also, ensure to use a vegetable-based pie crust.
