Apple-Chard Quiche

Apple-Chard Quiche Recipe from Switzerland | Ingredients: olive oil, butter, Swiss chard, mushrooms, apple, eggs, jarlsberg, milk

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Apple-Chard Quiche is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the earthy tones of Swiss chard, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that is both hearty and healthy. It's a versatile dish that can be served for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of ingredients not only offers a burst of flavor but also provides a range of nutritional benefits.

History

Quiche, a dish that originated in Germany, gained popularity in France, particularly in the Lorraine region. The traditional quiche Lorraine consisted of a custard made from eggs and cream in a pastry crust. Over time, various adaptations have emerged, incorporating different ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and cheeses. The Apple-Chard Quiche is a modern twist on this classic dish, introducing a sweet and savory element that makes it unique and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large vidalia or other onion, thinly sliced
1 cup (4 oz (113 g)) shredded ruby swiss chard
1 cup (about 2 oz (57 g)) thinly sliced mushrooms
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
0.5 cup chopped apple
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded jarlsberg cheese
0.5 cup skim milk
1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust, unbaked

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and sauté the onions until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
Add Swiss chard, mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the mushrooms and chard are soft, about 7 minutes.
Combine apples, flour, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl, and toss to coat the apples.
Combine eggs, cheese, and milk in a separate bowl, and beat until the ingredients are well blended.
Fold in the apple mixture.
Spoon the chard mixture into the pie crust.
Pour the egg-cheese-apple mixture over the top.
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the cheese mixture is set and the top is browned.
Cool slightly before slicing and serve.

Variations

Consider adding bacon or ham for a meatier version, or use different types of cheese such as goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple-Chard Quiche turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use cold butter and ice water for the pie crust to achieve a flaky texture.

- Caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.

- Squeeze excess moisture from the Swiss chard after cooking to prevent a soggy quiche.

- Pre-bake the pie crust for 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.

- Let the quiche rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apple-Chard Quiche with a side salad for a complete meal. A mix of arugula, nuts, and a light vinaigrette complements the quiche's flavors beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include caramelizing onions to enhance their sweetness, sautéing the Swiss chard and mushrooms to bring out their flavors, and baking the quiche to achieve a golden, crispy top.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cheese. If Swiss chard is not available, spinach makes a good substitute. Apples can be replaced with pears for a slightly different sweet note.

Make Ahead Tips

The quiche can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the quiche with fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley for a touch of color and added flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can enhance the sweetness of the apples.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the Apple-Chard Quiche. The wine's acidity complements the dish's rich and savory flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crust's crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this quiche contains approximately 250 calories. It's a relatively low-calorie option that doesn't compromise on taste or nutritional value.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Apple-Chard Quiche contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The apples and all-purpose flour are the primary sources of carbs in this dish. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this quiche can be a good option for a fulfilling breakfast or brunch.

Fats

This quiche contains about 12 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the unsalted butter, cheese, and olive oil. While it's important to monitor fat intake, these ingredients also contribute to the quiche's rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple-Chard Quiche offers around 9 grams of protein, thanks to the eggs and cheese. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a nutritious option for meal times.

Vitamins and minerals

The Apple-Chard Quiche is a good source of vitamins A and C, thanks to the Swiss chard and apples. It also provides calcium and iron, which are essential for bone health and oxygen transport in the blood, respectively.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. Those with dietary restrictions should take note and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Apple-Chard Quiche is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

The Apple-Chard Quiche is a modern take on a classic dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and nutrition. Whether you're looking for a satisfying breakfast, a hearty brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is sure to impress. With its combination of sweet apples, earthy Swiss chard, and a creamy custard filling, it's a delicious way to enjoy a variety of nutrients in one dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Apple-Chard Quiche. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just returned from a trip to the farmer's market with a basket full of fresh apples and chard. As I unpacked my haul, I couldn't help but think about the delicious dishes I could create with these ingredients.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a young girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She was a master in the art of cooking, and I had learned so much from her over the years. I had inherited her love for experimenting with new recipes and flavors, and I was always on the lookout for new dishes to try.

As I stood there in my kitchen, staring at the apples and chard, an idea began to form in my mind. I had never made a quiche before, but I knew it was a versatile dish that could be adapted to suit any combination of ingredients. And so, I set to work creating my own version of Apple-Chard Quiche.

I started by making the crust from scratch, combining flour, butter, and a pinch of salt until the dough came together. As I rolled out the dough and pressed it into my pie dish, I could already envision the golden, flaky crust that would soon be filled with a savory mixture of apples, chard, and cheese.

Next, I prepared the filling. I chopped the apples into thin slices and sautéed them in a pan with a bit of butter until they were soft and caramelized. In another pan, I wilted the chard with some garlic and olive oil, adding a splash of white wine for extra flavor.

Once the apples and chard were cooked to perfection, I whisked together some eggs, cream, and a generous amount of Gruyere cheese. I seasoned the mixture with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a dash of black pepper, then folded in the cooked apples and chard.

I poured the filling into the prepared crust and popped the quiche into the oven, where it baked until the top was golden brown and the aroma of apples and cheese filled the kitchen. As I watched the quiche rise and bubble in the oven, I knew that I had created something truly special.

When the quiche was finally done, I let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. The crust was perfectly flaky, the filling creamy and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a delightful combination of sweet apples, earthy chard, and rich cheese, all nestled in a buttery crust.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends. As they sat around the table, savoring each bite of Apple-Chard Quiche, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction. This dish was a testament to my love of cooking and my dedication to creating delicious and innovative recipes.

And so, that is how I learned to make the recipe for Apple-Chard Quiche. It has since become a favorite in my repertoire, a dish that I return to time and time again. I am grateful for the inspiration that led me to create this delightful quiche, and I look forward to many more years of cooking and sharing delicious meals with my loved ones.