I remember the first time I ever tried a cheese and onion quiche. It was at a family gathering, and someone had brought a homemade one to the table. The crust was golden, flaky, and the filling was so creamy, with a perfect balance of savory cheese and sweet caramelized onions. It was nothing like the store-bought quiches I had tried before. That moment stayed with me, and ever since, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect recipe. That’s when I came across Jamie Oliver’s version, which promised to be easy and packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll know exactly why it became a go-to in my kitchen.
Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Onion Quiche Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Cheese and Onion Quiche is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. His approach to cooking is all about using fresh, high-quality ingredients and minimal fuss. This quiche is no different. It’s not only a showstopper for any brunch but also works wonderfully as a lunch or dinner dish. The recipe is also incredibly adaptable, so you can make it your own depending on what you have available.
Here’s how I’ve come to appreciate the genius behind this recipe: Jamie’s twist is in how he cooks the onions. Instead of just sautéing them quickly, he caramelizes them slowly, which brings out their natural sweetness. Paired with a rich, creamy custard filling and sharp cheese, it’s a balance that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful quiche. You won’t need anything too fancy, just good-quality produce and a few pantry staples.
- 1 pack of shortcrust pastry (or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 medium onions, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 200g strong cheese (cheddar is classic, but Gruyère works great too)
- 4 large eggs
- 300ml double cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, but thyme or chives work beautifully)
I remember the first time I made it. I used a pre-made pastry, and it turned out perfectly. But there’s something magical about rolling out your own dough-it gives the whole process a bit more love. Either way, this dish is all about the balance of cheese and onions, so don’t skimp on either!
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Onion Quiche
Making this quiche is surprisingly easy once you break it down into steps. It’s all about layering flavors and textures, but nothing too complicated.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). If you’re using store-bought pastry, roll it out and press it into a tart tin. Blind bake the crust for 10-15 minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy later.
- Caramelize the onions. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook slowly for 20 minutes, stirring often. You want them to soften and become golden brown. Add the garlic for the last 5 minutes.
- Mix the custard. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Grate in the cheese and stir to combine.
- Assemble the quiche. Once the onions are caramelized, spread them evenly across the base of the cooked pastry. Pour the egg mixture over the onions, ensuring everything is covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. It should be firm to the touch but slightly wobbly in the middle.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. This gives the filling a chance to set properly, making it easier to slice.
The first time I tried this method, I was amazed at how the caramelized onions completely transformed the dish. The slow cooking made them sweet and savory at the same time, blending perfectly with the richness of the cheese.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the key ingredients in this quiche and why they work so well together.
- Onions: Onions are loaded with natural sugars that, when caramelized, bring out a deep, sweet flavor. Cooking them slowly helps break down the sugars and makes the onions tender, enhancing their taste and texture in the quiche.
- Cheese: Cheese, particularly a sharp one like cheddar, adds both flavor and a bit of saltiness. The fat in the cheese also helps create a smooth, creamy custard when baked with the eggs and cream.
- Eggs: Eggs are the foundation of the custard. They provide structure and richness, setting the quiche into that perfect, silky texture.
- Cream: The cream gives the quiche its indulgent, smooth texture. When combined with eggs, it creates a custard that’s light yet rich enough to carry the strong flavors of cheese and onions.
The science behind these ingredients makes this quiche not only delicious but also perfectly balanced.
Expert Tips
- Pre-cook the onions: Don’t rush the caramelization process. Let the onions slowly brown to bring out their full sweetness. It makes a world of difference.
- Use room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can cause the custard to separate or curdle. Let your eggs sit out for a few minutes before whisking them into the cream.
- Blind bake the pastry: This step ensures that your quiche crust stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy from the custard.
- Rest before slicing: Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. This gives the filling time to firm up, so you get clean slices instead of a runny mess.
- Don’t skip seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential. You can even experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or a bit of mustard powder for added depth.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about Jamie’s Cheese and Onion Quiche is its versatility. Here are a few ways to mix things up:
- Add some greens: Wilted spinach or kale can add a beautiful color and fresh flavor to the quiche.
- Swap the cheese: Try Gruyère, Emmental, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add bacon or ham: For a heartier meal, crispy bacon or cubed ham works wonders alongside the onions and cheese.
- Add herbs: Fresh thyme, chives, or rosemary can bring a fresh, aromatic layer to the dish.
I’ve tried a few variations myself, and adding crispy bacon was an instant win. It brings an extra savory punch that complements the sweetness of the onions.
Final Words
Making a quiche, especially one like Jamie Oliver’s, is an experience that can transform a simple meal into something special. From the rich, creamy filling to the perfectly crispy crust, every bite feels like a reward. I’ve made this quiche countless times, each time discovering new ways to tweak it and make it my own. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe will never disappoint.
FAQs
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Onion Quiche Take To Cook?
It takes about 30-35 minutes to bake the quiche in the oven, plus 10-15 minutes for prep time.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Onion Quiche Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.
What Kind Of Cheese Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Onion Quiche?
You can use mature cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a nice balance of flavor and texture.