Francu Pirags Quiche Lorraine

This delicious take on the classic quiche Lorraine is a savory pie that incorporates flavorful ingredients into a buttery crust. The recipe combines creamy sour cream, rich Džiugas cheese, and salty smoked bacon for a delightful taste experience. With its golden crust and rich filling, it's a dish that satisfies both as a warm comfort on cold days and as a cool delight during warmer months. Its preparation blends simple steps with impressive taste, making it perfect for family gatherings or a casual brunch. The layered flavors will tantalize your taste buds, as each bite offers a hint of tartness from the lemon juice mingled with the smoothness of the cream. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward yet captivating. The interpretation here brings a new dimension to traditional quiche by adding a uniquely rich character. Enjoy it on its own or paired with fresh salad greens for a complete meal. Delight your guests with this exquisite and easy-to-make dish that speaks of comfort and elegance.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Crust:

  • 125 g wheat flour
  • 75 g cold butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 beaten egg
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Filling:

  • 100 g smoked bacon
  • 30 g salted pork
  • 100 g leek
  • 75 g sour cream
  • 80 g Džiugas cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Half of the dough from the crust

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Crust: Combine the cold butter and flour until they form a crumbly mixture. Add half of a beaten egg, a pinch of salt, and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Knead the mixture into a cohesive dough ball, wrap it in cling film, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling: Start by slicing the leek into four long strips and then into thin pieces. Fry the salted pork slices in a pan until crispy. Chop the smoked bacon into small pieces.

3. Combine Filling Ingredients: Mix the sliced leek, crispy pork, and smoked bacon in a bowl. Grate the Džiugas cheese finely and add it to the mixture along with the eggs and sour cream. Stir until homogeneous.

4. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a baking tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Roll out the dough and carefully place it into the tin, ideally using a mold around 20 cm in diameter to achieve high edges.

5. Dock the Dough: Poke the dough with a fork to prevent bubbling as it bakes.

6. Assemble the Quiche: Spread the filling evenly over the crust. Without dough edges in this preparation, a butter-brushed edge can help secure the filling.

7. Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. Look for a golden crust and a firm filling as indicators of doneness.

8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot or allow it to cool completely for a delicious cold option.

9. Garnish and Accompaniments: Pair with fresh vegetables to balance flavors and enhance the meal.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

Tips

• Butter Choice: Use unsalted butter to control sodium levels.
• Cheese Alternatives: Replace Džiugas cheese with Gruyère or another hard cheese if unavailable.
• Leek Preparation: Thoroughly rinse the leek to remove any trapped dirt.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute meats with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free flour and adjust the dough consistency accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a zesty green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful meal.

Best Places

1. Ladurée Paris - Famous for refined French pastries including quiches. Location: 16-18 rue Royale, Paris, France.
2. Café de Flore - Iconic café offering French classics including quiche. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
3. Le Meurice - Luxurious dining with an extensive menu of authentic French dishes. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
4. Balthazar - New York gem known for brunch and classic bistro fare. Location: 80 Spring St, New York City, USA.
5. Quiche Café - Offers a variety of quiches and delightful lunches. Location: 10 Rue de Condé, Lyon, France.
6. Chez Panisse - Known for its fresh, farm-to-table approach. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
7. La Petit Paris - Offers French cuisine in a vintage atmosphere. Location: 16 Rue Linois, Paris, France.
8. Auberge du Pommier - Toronto’s upscale restaurant with a seasonal menu. Location: 4150 Yonge St, North York, Canada.
9. Café Central - Elegant café in Vienna known for quiche and pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
10. The French Café - A cosy spot for authentic French and modern fusion dishes. Location: 210 Symonds St, Auckland, New Zealand.