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Indulge in a Low-Carb Delight: Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche
Embark on a culinary journey with a dish that’s not only delicious and easy to make, but also perfectly aligns with your ketogenic lifestyle. The Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche is a savory, nutrient-packed meal that’s ideal for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner, this quiche has got you covered.
Featuring the classic flavors of tender broccoli and savory ham enveloped in a fluffy egg filling, this crustless quiche is a testament to the versatility and enjoyment possible on a keto diet. With its low carb count and high fat content, it’s designed to keep you satiated and energized without any guilt. Let’s dive into why this Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche should be your next go-to meal.
Discover the Origins and Keto Benefits of This Quiche
The Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche is more than just a meal; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that come together to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Originating from the need for a low-carb breakfast option that doesn’t skimp on taste or satisfaction, this quiche has become a staple in the keto community.
Let’s talk about the key ingredients. Broccoli, a low-carb vegetable, is rich in fiber and vitamins C and K, making it an excellent choice for those on a ketogenic diet. Ham adds a savory depth, while eggs and heavy cream provide a high-quality protein and fat source, essential for maintaining ketosis. The addition of cheddar cheese not only brings a creamy texture and rich flavor but also contributes additional fat, which is crucial for a well-formulated keto meal.
Each ingredient has been carefully selected to ensure that you’re not only indulging in a mouth-watering dish but also receiving the nutritional benefits that support your keto lifestyle. The combination of these ingredients results in a quiche that’s not only low in net carbs but also high in satiating fats, aligning perfectly with the keto diet’s macronutrient ratios.
Mastering the Perfect Keto Quiche
Creating the perfect Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche is all about the technique and attention to detail. Begin by preheating your oven to ensure a consistent cooking temperature. When sautéing your onions, aim for a translucent finish without browning, as this will yield a sweeter, milder flavor that complements the broccoli and ham.
As you whisk your eggs and heavy cream, do so vigorously to incorporate air, which will result in a lighter, fluffier quiche. Be sure to season well with garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, as these spices are key to enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. When adding the shredded cheddar, mix it into the egg mixture to ensure even distribution throughout the quiche.
When pouring the egg mixture over the broccoli and ham, take care to do so evenly, allowing the liquid to seep into every nook and cranny. This will prevent any dry spots and ensure a consistent texture. Baking until the center is set and the top is golden brown is crucial—resist the temptation to undercook or overcook, as this can affect both the taste and texture of your quiche.
Variations to Spice Up Your Quiche
Spinach and Feta Quiche
For a Greek twist, replace broccoli with spinach and add crumbled feta cheese. The spinach provides additional nutrients, while the feta offers a tangy contrast to the creamy egg base.
Mushroom and Swiss Quiche
Introduce earthy flavors by incorporating sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a more umami-rich profile in their meals.
Bacon and Asparagus Quiche
Swap ham for crispy bacon and add blanched asparagus for a quiche that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The bacon adds a smoky touch, while the asparagus keeps the dish fresh and vibrant.
Keto-Friendly Substitutions
Understanding that dietary needs and preferences vary, here are some keto-friendly substitutions to customize your quiche:
For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the cheese. You’ll still achieve a creamy consistency while adhering to dairy-free requirements.
If you’re looking to reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with almond milk, though this may result in a less rich quiche. And for those avoiding pork, turkey ham or smoked salmon make excellent replacements for traditional ham, keeping the dish keto-compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question | Answer |
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Can I make this quiche ahead of time? | Yes, you can prepare the quiche and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results. |
Is this quiche freezer-friendly? | While you can freeze the quiche, the texture may change upon thawing. For optimal taste, it’s best enjoyed fresh. |
Can I use frozen broccoli? | Yes, thaw and drain the broccoli well before using to prevent excess moisture in the quiche. |
How do I know when the quiche is done? | The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles, and the top is golden brown. |
Can I add extra protein to the quiche? | Absolutely, feel free to include additional keto-friendly protein sources like cooked sausage or bacon. |
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Keto Broccoli and Ham Crustless Quiche
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped (about 180g)
- 1 cup diced ham (150g)
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup/75g)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (113g)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (1.5g)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (0.5g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
- Spread the sautéed broccoli and onions evenly in the bottom of the greased pie dish.
- Sprinkle the diced ham over the broccoli.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
- Pour the egg mixture over the broccoli and ham in the pie dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let the quiche rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.