Elevate your brunch menu with the flavors of the Caribbean with this irresistible Callaloo Quiche. A delightful fusion of French and Caribbean cuisine, this recipe combines a flaky, golden crust, creamy cheese, herbs, savory seasonings and callaloo, a leafy green vegetable popular in many Caribbean countries.
Besides being a tasty brunch option, this callaloo quiche is great for meal prepping a healthy breakfast. Just pop a slice in the air fryer, oven or microwave for a quick and effortless meal that you can enjoy at home or on the go.
Ingredients:
For the Quiche Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Quiche Filling:
- 2 cups callaloo leaves, chopped (substitute with spinach if unavailable)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, or chives)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Quiche Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together into a ball.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your quiche pan or pie dish.
- Transfer the dough to the quiche pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges as desired.
- Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust, then line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Quiche Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add the chopped callaloo leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted and tender. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if using. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and the cooked callaloo mixture until evenly distributed.
4. Assemble and Bake the Quiche:
- Pour the egg and callaloo mixture into the pre-baked quiche crust.
- Smooth out the top with a spatula and sprinkle with additional cheese, if desired.
- Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
Conclusion:
With its velvety texture and savory flavors, our Callaloo Quiche is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of Caribbean cuisine. Whether served as a brunch centerpiece or enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner, this quiche is sure to delight your senses and transport you to the tropical paradise of the Caribbean. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to savor the flavors of the islands in every delectable bite. Bon appétit!