Mary Berry, often hailed as the "Queen of Baking" and known for her precise, delicious, and classic recipes, brings her mastery of British culinary traditions to a timeless favorite: Leek Quiche. This savory dish is a perfect blend of delicate, creamy custard and the soft, earthy flavors of leeks. With Mary Berry’s take, this quiche doesn’t just serve as a meal-it becomes a celebration of simple, elegant ingredients that are combined with care.
The base of this quiche is a buttery, crisp shortcrust pastry, which provides a satisfying contrast to the silky filling. The leeks, which are gently sautéed until tender, lend a mild onion-like flavor, which complements the rich egg mixture. The addition of cheese (often cheddar or a milder variety) adds a nice sharpness, balancing the subtle sweetness of the leeks. A perfect dish for a light lunch, a picnic, or even a dinner party, Mary Berry’s leek quiche is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
Not only is it visually appealing, with its golden top and invitingly soft filling, but it also carries the hallmark of Mary Berry’s style: balanced flavors, a straightforward approach, and a result that feels effortless yet impressive. The quiche is light yet rich, perfect for a sunny afternoon or paired with a crisp green salad.
Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Creating Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche is not complicated, but it requires a careful selection of ingredients to achieve the right balance of textures and flavors. Below is a detailed list of the essential ingredients you’ll need:
For The Pastry
- 250g (9 oz) plain flour – This is the base for the shortcrust pastry. Using plain flour gives the quiche its signature tender, crumbly texture. Some bakers choose to use a blend of plain flour and a small amount of whole wheat flour to add an earthy flavor.
- 125g (4 oz) unsalted butter – Cold and cubed, butter is crucial for creating the flakiness and richness in the pastry.
- 1 medium egg yolk – This acts as a binding agent to hold the dough together, giving it structure and richness.
- A pinch of salt – A small amount of salt enhances the flavor of the pastry and balances the sweetness of the butter.
For The Filling
- 2 medium leeks – Leeks are the star of the show. They should be sliced thinly and sautéed until soft, allowing their natural sweetness to develop.
- 150g (5 oz) mature cheddar cheese – A sharp, mature cheddar provides a robust, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the eggs and cream in the filling.
- 3 large eggs – Eggs are the foundation of any quiche filling, adding structure, richness, and that velvety texture.
- 150ml (½ cup) double cream – Cream adds that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth quality to the quiche filling.
- 150ml (½ cup) full-fat milk – A combination of milk and cream ensures the quiche isn’t too heavy but still creamy enough to have that satisfying texture.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the filling to taste.
- A pinch of nutmeg – This spice complements the leeks’ sweetness and enhances the creamy custard filling with a subtle warmth.
Equipment Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche, a few key pieces of kitchen equipment are necessary. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:
- A 23cm (9-inch) fluted tart tin – A good tart tin with a removable base is important for ensuring your quiche has a clean, professional look. The fluted edges add an aesthetic touch, and the removable base makes it easier to serve the quiche without damaging its delicate crust.
- A food processor or pastry blender – If you’re making the pastry by hand, you’ll need either a food processor to quickly blend the butter and flour together or a pastry blender to incorporate the butter into the flour.
- A frying pan – For sautéing the leeks, you’ll need a pan that heats evenly. A non-stick pan is ideal to prevent sticking and ensure the leeks cook evenly.
- A mixing bowl – To whisk the eggs, cream, and milk together for the filling, you’ll need a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- A rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the pastry evenly to fit the tart tin.
- A sharp knife – For chopping the leeks and cutting the quiche once it’s baked.
- A whisk – To thoroughly blend the custard filling of eggs, milk, and cream.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche
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Make The Pastry
- Begin by sifting the flour and salt into a bowl. Add the cubed butter and use your fingertips (or a food processor) to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and a tablespoon of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too dry, add a bit more water, a teaspoon at a time.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough relax, preventing shrinkage during baking.
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Prepare The Leeks
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the leeks. Trim the roots and dark green leaves, leaving only the pale green and white parts. Slice the leeks into thin rings, then wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.
- Heat a splash of olive oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the leeks and sauté gently for about 8-10 minutes, until they are soft and sweet but not browned. Set aside to cool.
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Roll Out The Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) or 170°C (340°F) for fan ovens. Roll the chilled pastry out on a lightly floured surface to about the thickness of a pound coin. Carefully transfer the pastry to your tart tin, gently pressing it into the edges and trimming off any excess.
- Prick the base of the pastry with a fork to prevent bubbling, then line it with parchment paper and fill it with baking beans or rice to blind-bake.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the paper and beans and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the pastry is golden and crisp.
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Prepare The Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked leeks and grated cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is well mixed.
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Assemble The Quiche
- Pour the leek and cheese filling into the baked pastry case. Smooth the top gently with a spatula.
- Return the quiche to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top.
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Cool And Serve
- Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before removing it from the tart tin. It’s best served warm or at room temperature, paired with a crisp salad or some fresh bread.
Tips And Tricks
- Chill the pastry: Don’t skip chilling the pastry dough-it helps prevent shrinkage during baking, ensuring your crust stays crisp and perfectly shaped.
- Cook the leeks slowly: Sautéing the leeks over a gentle heat helps to draw out their sweetness without burning them. This step is key to developing the rich flavor that will elevate your quiche.
- Use a mixture of cream and milk: To get a perfectly balanced filling, use a mix of cream and milk. This ensures the quiche has that luxurious texture without being too heavy.
- Blind bake the crust properly: Blind baking the pastry ensures it remains crisp even with the liquid filling. Be sure to bake the crust long enough to fully set before adding the filling.
- Add a twist: You can experiment with different cheeses-Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese could all provide interesting flavor variations. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness.
Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche is a wonderfully satisfying dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. It’s rich without being overwhelming, and its layers of flavor-thanks to the buttery pastry, sweet leeks, and tangy cheese-make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a picnic, or simply want to enjoy a comforting homemade meal, this quiche has all the hallmarks of a timeless classic. With Mary Berry’s precise, easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to recreate this delicious dish at home, impressing friends and family with minimal effort.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche
Mary Berry’s leek quiche recipe is a delicious, savory delight that can easily be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. While the classic leek quiche is already rich in flavor, adding a few simple variations can elevate the dish, making it even more exciting for different occasions. Here are a few easy recipe modifications to consider:
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Cheese Variations
The original recipe calls for cheddar cheese, but you can easily swap this out for other cheese varieties. For a more intense, tangy flavor, use gruyère or stilton. Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a nutty undertone, while stilton offers a punchy, blue cheese flavor that pairs wonderfully with leeks. For a lighter option, consider using feta cheese, which complements the leeks with its crumbly texture and slightly salty tang.
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Herb Infusions
While the classic leek quiche can be simply seasoned with salt and pepper, you can introduce fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile. Thyme is a classic herb for quiche, and it pairs beautifully with leeks. Fresh thyme, in particular, adds a fragrant earthiness to the quiche filling. You could also experiment with sage or tarragon, both of which provide unique flavors that complement the leek’s natural sweetness.
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Vegetarian Additions
Leeks on their own make a lovely filling for a vegetarian quiche, but you can also incorporate other vegetables for a richer taste. Spinach is a great choice, as its mild flavor works well with the leeks, and it adds a pop of color. Alternatively, roasted butternut squash can bring in a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor that enhances the quiche. If you enjoy a bit of texture contrast, consider adding mushrooms, which add umami depth to the dish.
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Meat Lovers’ Version
If you want a heartier quiche, add some cooked bacon or ham to the filling. Bacon brings a smoky, savory element, while ham offers a milder flavor. For a more indulgent quiche, you could also add sausage, crumbled and browned for an extra punch of flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat to avoid making the quiche too greasy.
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Crust Alternatives
While the classic shortcrust pastry works wonderfully with this quiche, it can be made even easier by using phyllo pastry for a lighter, crispier texture. If you’re avoiding gluten, consider making a gluten-free crust or even using a pre-made rice crust or almond flour crust. These gluten-free alternatives will still provide a satisfying base while making the quiche accessible to a wider range of diets.
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Vegan Adjustments
For a vegan-friendly version of this quiche, swap out the eggs and dairy for a tofu-based custard or a store-bought egg replacement, such as aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). For the cheese, use a plant-based alternative like vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast, which imparts a cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy. Adding nutritional yeast to the tofu custard mix will enhance the quiche’s savory richness.
Storing Leftovers
Storing leftovers from your Mary Berry leek quiche is simple, and with a few careful steps, you can maintain its flavor and texture. Whether you have a slice or two or an entire quiche left over, here are some tips to keep it fresh:
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Refrigeration
If you have any leftover quiche, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. Wrap the quiche slices or the entire quiche in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The quiche should be good for 3-4 days in the fridge. Be sure to reheat it properly to maintain the crispy texture of the crust and the creamy filling.
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Freezing
If you want to store the quiche for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. First, make sure the quiche is completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or freezer-safe foil. For added protection, place the wrapped quiche in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. This method will keep your quiche frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat it in the oven.
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Reheating Tips
To reheat your leek quiche, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche on a baking tray and cover it with foil to avoid drying out the top. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the crust is crispy again. For quicker reheating, you can use a microwave, but this may soften the crust slightly. To retain some of the crispness, microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes on high.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche?
Mary Berry’s leek quiche is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, brunch, or even a dinner. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:
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Fresh Green Salad
A crisp, fresh salad is the perfect complement to the richness of the quiche. Opt for a salad with a mixture of greens like arugula, spinach, and watercress, adding in some light vegetables like cucumbers and radishes. A tangy vinaigrette, perhaps with a touch of mustard or lemon, will cut through the creaminess of the quiche and add a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables bring out a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with quiche. Roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes work well, as their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the quiche. You could also try roasted brussels sprouts or cauliflower for a more earthy option.
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Soup
A light, comforting soup can complement the quiche perfectly. For something light and seasonal, try a tomato soup or a butternut squash soup. These soups add depth and warmth to the meal without overpowering the quiche. You could also go for a mushroom soup, whose earthy notes pair wonderfully with the leeks.
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Potato Dishes
New potatoes or baby potatoes roasted with garlic and herbs offer a hearty side dish that pairs well with the rich quiche. Alternatively, you could serve potato salad, especially in the warmer months, for a more casual, picnic-like vibe. A classic French potato salad, made with mustard and herbs, works especially well.
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Bread
A crusty baguette or some freshly baked bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside quiche. The bread can be used to soak up any crumbs or the extra custard filling, and the crunch of the crust contrasts nicely with the smooth filling of the quiche. You could also serve it with a garlic butter bread for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s leek quiche is a simple yet delightful dish that offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. With the ability to make easy variations to suit different tastes, it becomes a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by a wide range of eaters. Whether you’re making a vegetarian version with feta or adding bacon and gruyère for a heartier meal, this quiche can be tailored to your preferences.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche?
For Mary Berry’s leek quiche, you’ll need the following ingredients: a ready-made shortcrust pastry, leeks, butter, eggs, double cream, milk, grated cheese (typically cheddar or a similar variety), salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard for extra flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme for a more aromatic taste.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pastry For Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche?
Yes, you can substitute the shortcrust pastry with other types of pastry, such as puff pastry or even a gluten-free version if needed. However, shortcrust pastry tends to give the quiche a sturdier base, which complements the creamy filling perfectly. If using puff pastry, the texture will be lighter and flakier.
How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Leek Quiche Ahead Of Time And Store It?
You can easily make Mary Berry’s leek quiche ahead of time. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at a low temperature (about 160°C or 320°F) until warmed through.
