Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche

Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche Recipe - Delicious Swiss Cuisine

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 42

Introduction

Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche is a delightful and savory treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer. This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon and mushrooms with the creamy texture of Swiss cheese and sour cream, all encased in a buttery pastry crust. These mini quiches are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any meal or gathering.

History

The concept of quiche originates from Germany, in the medieval kingdom of Lothringen, which the French later renamed Lorraine. The classic quiche Lorraine contained eggs, cream, and smoked bacon. It was only later that cheese was added to the recipe. Over time, quiches have evolved to include a variety of fillings, including the bacon and mushroom combination featured in this recipe, making them a versatile dish enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients

8 slices of bacon
0.25 lb (113 g) of fresh mushrooms, chopped
1 tbsp of butter
0.33 cup of chopped green onion
1.67 cup of shredded swiss cheese
Pastry for double-crust pie (homemade or purchased)
5 eggs
1.67 cup of sour cream

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to a thickness of 0.06 inch.
Using a 3-inch cutter, cut out 42 circles. Re-roll any scraps as needed.
Fit the circles into the bottoms and slightly up the sides of lightly greased 2.5-inch muffin pans.
Meanwhile, fry the bacon slices until crisp. Drain and crumble or chop them.
Chop the mushrooms and sauté them in butter until they become limp and the liquid evaporates.
Combine the bacon, mushrooms, green onion, and cheese. Divide the filling equally among the muffin cups.
In a large bowl, beat together the eggs. Add the sour cream and stir until smooth. Spoon about 1 tbsp of the mixture into each muffin cup.
Bake until the muffins are puffed and light brown, approximately 20-25 minutes.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then lift them out. Serve warm or let them cool on wire racks.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add extra mushrooms or include other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Notes

If made ahead, wrap cooled quiches airtight, and refrigerate overnight. Reheat, uncovered, in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use fresh mushrooms and sauté them until all their moisture has evaporated to prevent the quiche from becoming soggy. When rolling out the pastry, ensure it's evenly thin to achieve a consistent bake. Pre-baking the pastry cups for a few minutes before adding the filling can also help prevent a soggy bottom. Lastly, let the quiches cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bite-sized quiches warm as part of a brunch spread or as appetizers at a party. They pair well with a light salad, fresh fruit, or a cup of coffee for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques involved in making these quiches include rolling and cutting the pastry, sautéing the mushrooms, and baking. Ensuring the pastry is not overworked and the mushrooms are well-cooked are crucial steps for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, whole wheat pastry can be used instead of regular pastry. Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream for a lower fat content, and turkey bacon can replace regular bacon for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

These quiches can be made ahead and frozen for up to a month. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through. This makes them perfect for meal prep or for having ready-to-go appetizers.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these quiches on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor. Miniature quiches also look appealing when arranged in a tiered serving stand.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these savory quiches with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco, to complement their rich flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the quiches and reheat as needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from fats and carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the pastry and to a lesser extent, the mushrooms and onions.

Fats

These bite-sized quiches are relatively high in fats, with each serving containing about 18 grams of fat. The fats come from the bacon, butter, eggs, sour cream, and cheese used in the recipe. Using low-fat sour cream and cheese can help reduce the total fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of this quiche provides approximately 9 grams of protein, contributed by the bacon, eggs, and cheese. This makes the quiches a good source of high-quality protein.

Vitamins and minerals

These quiches are a source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the eggs and cheese, Vitamin D from the eggs, and various B vitamins from both the eggs and bacon. Minerals include calcium from the cheese and selenium from the eggs.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, dairy (butter, cheese, sour cream), and gluten (from the pastry). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche is a nutrient-dense food that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is relatively high in calories and contains common allergens.

Summary

Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon and mushrooms with creamy cheese and a flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion, these mini quiches are sure to impress with their delightful taste and presentation. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, they are a practical and enjoyable choice for any home cook.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly cooking session. Margaret was a fantastic cook, and I always looked forward to learning new recipes from her.

On this particular day, Margaret had a twinkle in her eye as she pulled out the ingredients for the quiche. She explained that this recipe was passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a French chef many years ago. I was intrigued and eager to learn the secrets behind this delicious dish.

As we began to prepare the quiche, Margaret shared stories of her grandmother and the many recipes she had collected over the years. She talked about how each recipe was a piece of history, a connection to the past that brought joy and comfort to those who tasted it. I listened intently, soaking up every detail as we chopped, sautéed, and baked our way through the recipe.

The smell of sizzling bacon and earthy mushrooms filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. When the quiche came out of the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew it was going to be something special. Margaret carefully plated the bite-sized quiches, each one a perfect blend of savory flavors and buttery pastry.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to Margaret's grandmother's kitchen, where the scent of freshly baked pastries and laughter filled the air. The quiche was divine – a melt-in-your-mouth combination of crispy bacon, tender mushrooms, and creamy egg custard. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I have made the Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche countless times, each batch better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of good food and good company. Every time I make the quiche, I am reminded of Margaret's generosity and the joy of cooking with loved ones.

In a way, this recipe has become a part of my own family's history, a link to the past that brings us together around the table. It is a reminder of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but our souls as well. As I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I am grateful for the lessons learned from Margaret and her grandmother, and the memories we have shared over a simple dish of Bacon and Mushroom Bite-sized Quiche.