Cook lip-smacking Belgian leek quiche with this classic recipe
Hailing from Belgium's scenic locales, leek quiche is a savory treasure. It melds the mild sweetness of leeks with a luscious custard nestled in a buttery crust. A beloved dish for brunch or dinner, it reflects Belgian culinary artistry's simplicity and refinement. Embrace the tradition of European dining and prepare to craft this delectable, flaky pastry delight. Let's start cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
To embark on this culinary journey, you'll need one pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer), three large leeks cleaned and thinly sliced, one cup of grated Gruyere cheese, four large eggs, 1.5 cups of heavy cream, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Prepare your leeks
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced leeks with a bit of butter or oil until soft and translucent. This should take about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper while they cook. Once finished, evenly distribute the leeks on the bottom of your pie crust.
Mix your custard
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, a dash of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste until the mixture is smooth. Fold in the larger portion of the grated Gruyere cheese, reserving some for topping. Pour this blended custard over the leeks in the pie crust. Top with the remaining cheese for a beautifully golden finish upon baking.
Bake to perfection
Place the quiche on a baking sheet to catch drips and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Watch for the custard to set and the surface to turn golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, signifying that your Belgian leek quiche is perfectly cooked and ready to be served.
Serve warm and enjoy
Once baked to perfection, allow your Belgian leek quiche to cool slightly before slicing into wedges. This dish serves well with a crisp green salad or as a stand-alone star at any mealtime. The creamy texture paired with sweetness of this flaky pastry will surely make this quiche a new favorite in your recipe collection!
