This delightful quiche combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks, the saltiness of ham, and the creaminess of Brie cheese, all encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it can be enjoyed hot or cold and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or chutney.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Shortcrust Pastry:

  • ½ batch of Easy 3-Step Shortcrust Pastry

• Caramelized Leek:

  • 1 leek
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Filling:

  • 1¾ oz (50g) shaved ham
  • 2 free-range eggs
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup cream
  • ⅓ cup grated cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 10 slices of Brie cheese (approximately 2¾ oz or 80g)

• Egg Wash:

  • 1 free-range egg, whisked with 1 tablespoon of milk

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll out the shortcrust pastry to about ⅛ inch (3mm) thickness on a lightly floured surface.
   • Line tart pans with the pastry, pressing gently into the corners. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Caramelize the Leek:

   • Clean the leek, remove the outer layer, and slice finely.
   • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the leek until soft.
   • Add brown sugar and red wine vinegar. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture caramelizes. Set aside to cool.

3. Blind Bake the Pastry:

   • Prick the base of each chilled tart shell with a fork.
   • Line with parchment paper and fill with baking weights or rice.
   • Bake for 12 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then brush with egg wash.
   • Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until golden.

4. Assemble the Quiche:

   • Evenly distribute the caramelized leek and ham in the tart shells.
   • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, grated cheese, salt, and pepper.
   • Pour the egg mixture over the leeks and ham.
   • Top each tart with slices of Brie cheese.

5. Bake:

   • Bake the assembled tarts for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the tops are golden.
   • Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 335 kcal
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This quiche is the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The leeks, when caramelized, develop a rich, deep sweetness that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of ham. The Brie adds an extra layer of creaminess, making every bite melt in your mouth. The homemade shortcrust pastry is crisp and buttery, complementing the filling beautifully. Another great reason to love this recipe is its versatility—you can enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.

The Magic of Caramelized Leeks

Leeks are an underrated vegetable that add a subtle onion-like flavor with a hint of natural sweetness. When caramelized, they become incredibly rich and flavorful. The combination of brown sugar and red wine vinegar enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a slight tangy edge, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy and savory elements in the quiche.

The Role of Brie in This Quiche

Brie cheese is known for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor. In this quiche, it elevates the dish by melting beautifully into the egg mixture, creating a luscious texture. The slight earthiness of Brie enhances the dish’s overall depth of flavor, making it more refined and sophisticated.

Perfect Pairings for This Quiche

One of the great things about this quiche is its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages, making it ideal for any meal of the day. Here are some delicious pairings:

• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich quiche.
• Chutney or Relish: A fruit-based chutney, such as fig or cranberry, enhances the sweet and savory notes of the quiche.
• Soup: A light vegetable or tomato soup makes for a cozy and well-rounded meal.
• Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Quiche

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients greatly impacts the final result. Opt for fresh, free-range eggs, high-quality Brie, and good-quality ham for the best flavor.
• Chill the Pastry: Allowing the shortcrust pastry to rest in the fridge before baking helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a crisp texture.
• Don’t Overfill the Tart Shells: Pouring too much liquid filling can cause spillage or prevent the quiche from setting properly. Leave a little space at the top of each tart.
• Bake Until Just Set: The quiche should be firm but still have a slight wobble in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
• Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving: This allows the flavors to meld together and makes slicing easier.

Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about quiche is that it stores well, making it a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable, so you can modify it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some variations you might enjoy:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious meat-free version.
• Different Cheeses: Swap Brie for goat cheese, Gruyère, or cheddar to change up the flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or rosemary to the egg mixture for extra aroma and taste.
• Spicy Kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes can give this quiche a slight heat.

When to Serve This Quiche

This quiche is a great option for various occasions. Some ideal moments to serve it include:

• Brunch Gatherings: A perfect addition to a weekend brunch spread.
• Holiday Breakfasts: A great make-ahead option for Christmas or Easter mornings.
• Picnics: Since it tastes great at room temperature, it’s ideal for picnics and outdoor dining.
• Light Dinner: Serve with a side salad for a quick and easy dinner.

Conclusion

This Caramelized Leek, Ham, and Brie Quiche is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress anyone who tries it. The balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and buttery elements makes every bite truly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this quiche is guaranteed to be a hit. With its easy adaptability, you can tailor it to your taste and dietary preferences, ensuring that it remains a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today, and elevate your next meal with this exquisite dish!