Blog Post #2: La Quiche

From France to My Kitchen - A Love Story as Tasty as It Gets

Bonjour, my fellow foodies!

As a French-American maman who has embarked on a passionate affair with the world of quiche-making, I'm here to share my journey that's flakier than a croissant and as satisfying as a café creme. Grab your aprons and get ready for a quiche-filled escapade.

1. **A Quiche Obsession: From Samoens to My Stove**

Ah, quiche – the French delight that's as versatile as it is irresistible. My love story with this savory sensation began in my mom’s kitchen where she frequently cooked up (and still does!) this simple and awesome meal. Call it a culinary coup de foudre, but quiche has become my passport to a world of flavors.

2. **Flour, Butter, and a Dash of Amour**

The secret to a sublime quiche? It all starts with the holy trinity of French baking: flour, butter, and a dash of amour. Yes, you read correctly: you must love your quiche from start to finish. 

As I roll out that delicate crust, I'm transported to a cozy kitchen in a French village (specifically, Samoens!) where the aroma of freshly baked goodness perfumes the air. 

Now, let's address the elephant in the room – there are days when I'm feeling as lazy as a cat in the sun, and that's when I shamelessly embrace the pre-made quiche dough (so easy to find in any French supermarket). After all, even the French have their shortcuts, and who am I to deny myself a shortcut to quiche heaven?

3. **Quiche-Crafting: Artistry in Every Layer**

Crafting a quiche is like painting a masterpiece – each layer tells a tale of flavor and finesse. From arranging sautéed veggies to nestling savory meats, every ingredient is a brushstroke in a gastronomic gallery. And let's not forget the cheese, that creamy crescendo that binds it all together like the threads of a well-tailored beret. Ha! And, in our case, let’s not forget the yogurt because that is my secret-not secret ingredient. 

4. **Quiche à Gogo: The Versatility Vortex**

From Lorraine to salmon, spinach to goat cheese, quiche's versatility is a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. It's a culinary canvas where you are the artist, curating ingredients that harmonize in a mouthwatering melody. Need a brunch sensation or a dinner sensation? Quiche has got your back, my friends.

5. **Sharing the Quiche Love: Bon Appétit!**

As you slice into a quiche that emerges golden and glorious from your oven, you’re reminded of the simple joys that food brings – a warm hug for the soul and a taste of culture in every bite. Just throw down a big green salad with your homemade vinaigrette and call it a day. 

Sharing a slice with your friends and family is like sharing a piece of your heart, a gesture that transcends borders and languages. Have it laid it on thick enough?

So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen rookie, join me on this quiche-filled escapade. Let's channel our inner Julia Childs and embrace the flaky, flavorful world of quiche-making. From oven to table, let's savor the symphony of flavors that unite the traditions of France and the heart of our kitchens. 

Bon appétit, mes amis – may your quiches be flaky, and your fillings fabulous. 🥐🍳🧀🍅

**Quick and Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche, La Classique**

Ingredients:

- 1 pre-made pie crust (or make your own as it takes no time)

- 3 slices of ham

- 1-2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or something of the sort)

- 4 large eggs

- 1 cup of yogurt

- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roll out your pre-made pie crust and line a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges.

3. Sprinkle the cut up pieces of ham and grated Gruyère cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.

4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or half-and-half), yogurt, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese in the pie crust.

6. Carefully place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is golden brown. (Times can vary so check starting at 25 min)

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Feel free to customize your quiche by adding sautéed vegetables, different cheeses, or other fillings of your choice. Serve your quiche warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a taste of France right in your own kitchen!

Bon appétit! 🥚🥓🧀

**Quick Quiche Dough Recipe**

Ingredients:

- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

- 3-4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Start by cutting your cold butter into small cubes. Place them in the refrigerator to keep them cold.

2. **Mix the Flour and Salt:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.

3. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still have some visible pea-sized pieces of butter.

4. **Add Ice Water:** Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while gently mixing the dough with a fork. Add just enough water until the dough begins to come together. You don't want it too wet, just moist enough to hold together.

5. **Form a Disk:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gather it together and gently knead it a few times to form a cohesive dough. Shape the dough into a disk.

6. **Roll Out the Dough:** Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Roll from the center outward, turning the dough occasionally to maintain an even thickness.

7. **Transfer to Pie Dish:** Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to your pie dish. Gently press the dough into the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.