Kudzu Rice Quiche Recipe
Overview
Kudzu Rice Quiche is a savory, protein-packed dish that combines tender kudzu leaves with a rice and cheese crust for a unique and flavorful lunch or brunch. The delicate purple flowers of kudzu, which bloom from late July through September, are not just ornamental but can be used in various culinary dishes, offering a mild, green bean-like flavor when young and tender. This quiche is an excellent way to showcase this often-overlooked plant, providing a nutritious, herbaceous layer to the creamy filling. If you’re new to cooking with kudzu, youβll enjoy this simple recipe that highlights the plant’s subtle taste.
This Kudzu Rice Quiche, with its creamy filling and crunchy rice crust, is the perfect dish for a quick but unique brunch or lunch. It’s rich in protein, with eggs, cottage cheese, and Swiss cheese as the base, while the kudzu leaves provide a fresh, vegetal note that enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. The addition of parmesan, nutmeg, and a dash of Tabasco sauce makes this quiche an unforgettable treat.
Recipe Details:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Category: Lunch/Snacks, Brunch
- Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, Free of Gluten
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 large eggs |
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Swiss cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh kudzu leaves | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Margarine | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cottage cheese | 6 ounces |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Heavy cream | 6 tablespoons |
| Evaporated milk | 1/4 cup |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Tabasco sauce (optional) | A few dashes |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 304.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 188.9 mg |
| Sodium | 498.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 14.4 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake the quiche. -
Prepare the Pan:
Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan, or if you donβt have one, a square 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan will also work. This will prevent the quiche from sticking to the sides as it bakes. -
Prepare the Rice Crust:
In a medium-sized bowl, beat one egg until smooth. Add the cooked rice and Swiss cheese, mixing thoroughly. This combination will form the crust of the quiche. Once well mixed, spread the rice mixture evenly in the prepared pan, pressing it down gently to form a crust-like base. Refrigerate this mixture while you prepare the filling, to help it set. -
Cook the Kudzu:
In a small saucepan, bring just enough water to a simmer to cook the kudzu leaves. Add the fresh kudzu leaves and cook them for a few minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, press out any excess moisture from the leaves. Then, chop the kudzu finely and set it aside. -
Prepare the Quiche Filling:
In a separate medium bowl, beat the remaining three eggs until smooth. Stir in the salt, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, evaporated milk, nutmeg, and Tabasco sauce (if using). Continue mixing until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. -
Incorporate the Kudzu:
Once your filling mixture is smooth, stir in the cooked, chopped kudzu leaves. The kudzu will add a fresh, green flavor that balances the richness of the cheeses and eggs. -
Assemble the Quiche:
Pour the kudzu filling into the prepared rice crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring the filling is well distributed. -
Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the quiche is firm in the center and lightly golden on top. To check for doneness, gently tap the side of the pan; the filling should not jiggle. -
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This allows the quiche to set properly and makes slicing easier. Slice into wedges and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Kudzu Rice Quiche pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, or can be enjoyed as part of a light brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and crusty bread. It can also be served as a standalone meal with a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial lunch or dinner.
This quiche is perfect for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can even be frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat in the oven before serving for a quick and nutritious meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kudzu Rice Quiche
- Kudzu Leaves: Make sure to select the youngest and tenderest leaves for the best flavor and texture. The larger, older leaves are tough and fibrous and won’t work as well in this recipe.
- Rice Substitutes: If you don’t have cooked rice on hand, you can substitute it with cooked quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor.
- Spice Variations: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider increasing the amount of Tabasco sauce or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture.
- Freezing: This quiche freezes well, so make a double batch and freeze one for later. When reheating from frozen, bake at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Conclusion
This Kudzu Rice Quiche is a delightful dish that makes the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re an adventurous cook looking to try kudzu for the first time or a long-time fan of this unique plant, this quiche offers a great introduction. Its blend of creamy, cheesy filling and the subtle crunch of the rice crust makes it a satisfying choice for any lunch or brunch gathering. Try it today for a delicious and nutritious meal thatβs as innovative as it is flavorful!
