James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine Recipe

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine is a contemporary twist on the classic French quiche. Known for its rich, savory filling, this dish combines a buttery pastry crust with a creamy filling made of eggs, cream, and crispy bacon.

The addition of cheese, often Gruyère or a similar variety, enhances its depth of flavor. This recipe is a popular comfort food that’s both hearty and elegant, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

James Martin, a well-respected British chef, has crafted his own version of this beloved French dish, putting his spin on the traditional recipe. His approach tends to emphasize simplicity, good-quality ingredients, and easy-to-follow steps that make it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For The Pastry

  • 250g plain flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 125g unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1-2 tbsp cold water (to bring the dough together)

• For The Filling

  • 200g streaky bacon or lardons
  • 200ml double cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 150g Gruyère cheese (grated)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • A small handful of fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipment Needed

To prepare James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine, you will require the following kitchen equipment:

• A 9-inch tart tin (preferably loose-bottomed for easy removal)
• Food processor (optional, for making pastry)
• Rolling pin (for rolling out the pastry dough)
• Frying pan (to cook the bacon)
• Large mixing bowl (for combining the egg mixture)
• Grater (for cheese)
• Whisk (to beat the eggs and cream)
• Baking beans or rice (to blind-bake the pastry)
• Baking tray (to catch any drips from the quiche while baking)
• Oven (preheated to the desired temperature)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine

1. Make The Pastry

   • Begin by placing the flour, butter, and salt into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can rub the butter into the flour by hand.
   • Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it to bring it into a ball. Flatten it into a disc, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare The Filling

   • While the pastry chills, heat a frying pan over medium heat and cook the streaky bacon or lardons until they are crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, double cream, grated Gruyère cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

3. Roll The Pastry

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • On a floured surface, roll out the pastry dough until it’s large enough to fit your tart tin. Carefully lift it into the tin and press it gently into the edges. Trim any excess pastry around the edges.

4. Blind Bake The Pastry

   • Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or rice. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and beans, and bake for another 5 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.

5. Assemble The Quiche

   • Once the pastry has cooled slightly, scatter the crispy bacon or lardons evenly over the base.
   • Pour the egg and cream mixture over the bacon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

6. Bake The Quiche

   • Place the quiche into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top.

7. Cool And Serve

   • Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before removing it from the tart tin. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Chill Your Pastry: Allowing the pastry to chill before baking is crucial for achieving a tender, flaky crust. If the dough is too soft when rolling, it will become difficult to handle and might shrink during baking.
• Blind Baking: Don’t skip the blind baking step. It ensures the crust doesn’t become soggy when filled with the wet egg mixture. You can use dried beans or rice as an alternative if you don’t have baking beans.
• Perfect Filling: For an extra creamy filling, use a combination of heavy cream and milk. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan, but Gruyère is the classic choice for its nutty flavor.
• Add Vegetables: If you want to add some extra flavor or texture, consider incorporating sautéed onions, spinach, or mushrooms. Make sure to cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture, preventing the quiche from becoming too soggy.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the quiche while baking. Overcooking it can cause the filling to curdle. It’s done when the center is just set and lightly golden.

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine is a beautifully simple dish that combines elegance with comfort. With its buttery crust, creamy filling, and crispy bacon, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a casual dinner, or simply indulging in a classic French-inspired dish at home.

By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing a few helpful tips, you can master this recipe and bring a taste of France to your kitchen. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this quiche is sure to become a beloved favorite for both family and friends.

Simple Twists On James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine Recipe

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that combines crispy pastry, a rich filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and smoked bacon. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, and there are many ways you can put your own spin on it while still respecting the traditional flavors. Here are a few simple twists you can try to elevate your Quiche Lorraine:

1. Vegetarian Version: Swap out the traditional bacon for other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or leeks. You can even add roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. This will give you a lighter, yet equally flavorful quiche, perfect for those avoiding meat.
2. Herbed Crust: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives into the pastry dough. These herbs infuse the crust with a fragrant depth that complements the creamy filling. It’s an easy change that adds a fresh twist without overpowering the classic flavor profile.
3. Cheese Variations: While Gruyère is the traditional cheese used in Quiche Lorraine, you can try using other cheeses such as sharp cheddar, feta, or even goat cheese. Each cheese variety offers a unique flavor that will transform the overall taste of the quiche, giving it a personal flair.
4. Adding a Touch of Spice: A pinch of nutmeg is a traditional ingredient in quiche fillings, but you can elevate it further by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. This will give your quiche a subtle heat that enhances its richness, offering a slight contrast to the creamy texture.
5. Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a lighter version of the classic quiche, try substituting some of the cream with low-fat milk or even a bit of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You can also use a whole wheat crust or opt for a crustless quiche for a lower-carb alternative.

These simple twists allow you to customize James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, making it a more versatile dish for any occasion.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a batch of James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine and have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain both flavor and freshness. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Cooling: Allow your quiche to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the crust soggy.
2. Wrap It Right: Once the quiche is cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. This will prevent the quiche from drying out and protect it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
3. Refrigeration: Store your wrapped or containerized quiche in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. Quiche is best when it’s eaten within this time frame, as the creamy filling tends to lose its freshness over time.

4. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze quiche. First, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. This will help protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze quiche for up to 2-3 months.

   When you’re ready to eat frozen quiche, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. This will help restore the texture of the crust while reheating the filling evenly.

What To Eat With James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine?

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine is rich and hearty, so pairing it with fresh and lighter sides can balance out the meal beautifully. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your quiche:

1. Green Salad: A simple, crisp green salad is the perfect complement to a rich quiche. Try a mixture of arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing will cut through the richness of the quiche, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or zucchini add a beautiful depth of flavor to your meal. The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, offering a lovely balance to the savory quiche.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries, apples, and citrus can provide a sweet contrast to the creamy richness of the quiche. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of mint or a drizzle of honey to the fruit salad.
4. Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked crusty bread or a baguette can be a perfect accompaniment. You can use the bread to mop up any delicious custard filling that may have escaped from the quiche, adding to the satisfaction of your meal.
5. Pickles or Chutney: A small serving of tangy pickles or a savory chutney on the side adds a punch of acidity and spice that complements the richness of the quiche. The sharpness of the pickles or the sweetness and tang of chutney offer an additional layer of flavor that enhances the meal.

These sides not only elevate the meal but also help to balance the richness of the Quiche Lorraine, turning it into a well-rounded dish for any gathering or family meal.

Conclusion

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine is a timeless classic, beloved for its creamy, savory filling and flaky, buttery crust. Its versatility allows for simple twists to make the dish your own, whether you prefer a vegetarian version or want to experiment with different cheeses and spices.

When storing leftovers, make sure to follow proper storage techniques to maintain freshness and flavor, whether refrigerating or freezing. To complement the richness of the quiche, pair it with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or tangy sides like chutneys or pickles. This delightful dish is both comforting and adaptable, making it perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Essential In James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine Recipe?

James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine recipe typically includes classic French ingredients such as shortcrust pastry, smoked bacon lardons, free-range eggs, double cream, whole milk, and mature cheddar or Gruyère cheese. He also uses seasoning like salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor. The balance between the rich, creamy custard and the smoky bacon is what makes this dish so deliciously traditional.

How Does James Martin Recommend Baking The Quiche To Avoid A Soggy Bottom?

To prevent a soggy bottom, James Martin often blind bakes the shortcrust pastry. This involves lining the tart tin with the pastry, covering it with parchment paper, filling it with baking beans or rice, and baking it partially before adding the filling.

This step ensures the base is crisp and fully cooked before the creamy custard filling goes in. He also recommends cooling the pastry slightly before pouring in the egg mixture to prevent leaks.

Can You Make James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine In Advance And How Should It Be Stored?

Yes, James Martin’s Quiche Lorraine can be made ahead of time. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in the fridge wrapped in foil or in an airtight container.

It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also reheat slices in the oven at around 160°C (320°F) until warmed through, though it’s just as tasty served cold with a green salad for a light lunch or picnic option.