Jamie Oliver's Quiche Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Guide
Jamie Oliver, renowned for his approachable cooking style, has several quiche recipes that are perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. While he doesn't have one single definitive "Jamie Oliver Quiche Recipe," his style emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. This article will guide you through creating a delicious quiche inspired by his philosophy. We'll focus on a classic Lorraine-style quiche, easily adaptable to your favorite fillings.
Understanding the Core Elements of a Great Quiche (Jamie Oliver Style)
Jamie Oliver's approach to cooking prioritizes quality ingredients and simple preparation. This translates to a quiche that focuses on:
- High-quality pastry: A good, buttery pastry is the foundation. While you can buy ready-made pastry, making your own adds a level of satisfaction (and often, better flavor). Jamie often encourages using simple, classic recipes.
- Fresh, seasonal vegetables: Think vibrant colors and peak flavor. Asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes all work beautifully.
- Good quality cheese: A sharp cheddar, creamy Gruyère, or even a tangy goat cheese elevates the quiche.
- Simple seasoning: Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs are usually all you need to let the ingredients shine.
Jamie Oliver Inspired Quiche Lorraine Recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from Jamie Oliver's cooking style, prioritizing simple, fresh ingredients and a straightforward approach.
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the pastry:
- 200g plain flour
- 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Pinch of salt
- 5-7 tbsp ice-cold water
For the filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 200ml double cream (or crème fraîche for a richer flavor)
- 100g grated Gruyère cheese (or similar hard cheese)
- 150g smoked bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
Making the pastry:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add water gradually: Stir in the ice-cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling and baking the quiche:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan/375°F/Gas Mark 5).
- Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to a circle slightly larger than your quiche tin (approximately 28cm).
- Blind bake (optional): Line your quiche tin with the pastry. Prick the base with a fork. You can optionally blind bake the crust for 10-12 minutes to prevent a soggy bottom. Line the pastry with baking paper and fill with baking beans or rice.
- Sauté the bacon and onion: While the pastry chills (or is blind baking), gently sauté the diced bacon and finely chopped onion until the bacon is crispy and the onion is softened.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and double cream (or crème fraîche). Stir in the grated cheese, cooked bacon and onion, and season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Add fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pastry case. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations for your Jamie Oliver Inspired Quiche
- Vegetable variations: Experiment with different vegetables! Asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, peppers, and zucchini all work well. Simply sauté them before adding to the egg mixture.
- Cheese variations: Try different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Feta, goat cheese, or a mixture of cheeses can be delicious.
- Herb variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley can add extra flavor.
- Leftovers: Quiche makes fantastic leftovers! It's even better the next day.
By following this recipe and adapting it to your taste, you can create a truly delicious and satisfying quiche in the style of Jamie Oliver. Remember, the key is fresh, high-quality ingredients and a straightforward approach. Enjoy!
