Quiche Lorraine

 Introduction

Quiche is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any meal, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This Savory Ham and Mushroom Quiche combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the richness of Gruyere cheese, and the delightful taste of ham, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. Prepared using the Emeril Air Fryer, this quiche is both easy to make and deliciously satisfying. With a perfect blend of creamy and savory elements, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Preparation Time and Servings

Preparation Time:15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 32 minutes
– Servings: 6

 Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon butter
– ½ cup onion, diced
– 2 oz. button mushrooms, sliced
– ¼ cup ham, diced
– ¾ cup cream
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 egg
– ½ teaspoon thyme
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ½ cup Gruyere cheese, grated
– 1 refrigerated pie crust

 Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
– Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion and ham, and slice the button mushrooms. After grating the Gruyere cheese, reserve it. . Ensure that your refrigerated pie crust is thawed and ready to use.

2. ook the Vegetables and Ham:
– In a medium-sized skillet, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. The chopped onions and sliced mushrooms go into the heated butter.
– Cook the onions and mushrooms for about 5 minutes, stirring often until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are softened. The butter will help to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the cream, egg yolk, and whole egg. Whisk these together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
– Season the mixture with thyme, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. These spices add depth and a hint of warmth to the quiche. Adapt the seasoning to your personal taste.

4. Combine and Cook:
– Add the diced ham to the skillet with the onions and mushrooms. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to heat through for about 2 minutes.
-After adding the cream mixture to the skillet, stir constantly for a further two minutes. This will start to cook the eggs slightly and create a thickened, creamy filling.

5. Prepare the Pie Crust:
– Preheat your Emeril Air Fryer to the bake setting at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius).
– Roll out your refrigerated pie crust and place it into a pie pan. Press the crust gently into the pan and trim any excess dough from the edges. Make certain the crust is level and free of air bubbles.

6. Assemble the Quiche:
– Transfer the vegetable, ham, and cream mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread it out evenly to ensure a uniform distribution of ingredients.
– Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese evenly over the top of the filling. Gruyere cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty, rich flavor that complements the quiche perfectly.

7. Bake the Quiche:
– Carefully place the pie pan inside the Emeril Air Fryer. Make sure it sits level to avoid any spills.
– Set the air fryer to the bake setting at 300 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 25 minutes. After cooking, the quiche should set and have a gorgeous golden brown top.

8. Serve:
– Once the quiche is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer.Before slicing, let it cool for a few minutes.
– Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a light salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

 Nutrition Information

– Calories: 164
– Fat:21g
– Protein:32g

 Tips for Perfect Quiche

– Pie Crust: For a homemade touch, you can make your own pie crust using flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. If using store-bought, ensure it is fully thawed before using.
– Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to sauté them lightly before adding to the mixture to remove excess moisture.
– Cheese Choices: While Gruyere is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or even feta for different flavor profiles.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer for baking quiche offers several advantages:

  • Efficiency: Compared to regular ovens, air fryers cook food more quickly, which saves time.
  • Energy Saving: They use less energy compared to traditional ovens, making them more eco-friendly.
  • Consistency: Air fryers provide even cooking, ensuring that your quiche is perfectly baked with a crispy crust and a tender filling.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Quiche:
– Omit the ham and add a variety of vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and tomatoes. This variation is packed with nutrients and perfect for a meatless meal.

2. Cheese Lover’s Quiche:
– Add a mix of your favorite cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The combination of different cheeses creates a rich and indulgent flavor.

3.Seafood Quiche:
– Add cooked prawns or crab meat to the mixture.  The seafood adds a unique twist and pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and Gruyere cheese.

4. Herb Infused Quiche:
– Add a handful of fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives. The herbs add a burst of freshness and elevate the overall flavor of the quiche.

5. Spicy Quiche:
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the filling for a spicy kick. Pair with pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Quiche is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various side dishes:

Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich quiche perfectly.
Fruit: Fresh fruit like berries, melon, or citrus adds a refreshing contrast.
Soup: A bowl of hot soup, such as tomato or broccoli cheddar, makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate any leftover quiche in an airtight container for up to three days.
Reheat slices in an air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but the crust may lose some of its crispness.

This Savory Ham and Mushroom Quiche is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy eggs, savory ham, earthy mushrooms, and nutty Gruyere cheese, all encased in a flaky pie crust, is simply irresistible. Preparing it in the Emeril Air Fryer makes the process quick and easy, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious homemade quiche without the fuss.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a light dinner, or preparing meals ahead of time, this quiche is sure to impressCustomise it using your favourite ingredients to make it unique. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the satisfaction of creating a homemade dish that’s both comforting and gourmet.

 

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