Nutritious Vegan Quiche Recipe (Savory And Hearty Food)

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Finding the perfect vegan quiche recipe can be a culinary quest for many. Early on, my journey into plant-based eating was marked by trial and error, especially when I craved the comfort of traditional dishes.

The challenge was real: how to recreate the rich, satisfying essence of a classic quiche without eggs or dairy? I experimented with various ingredients, seeking that delicate balance of flavor and texture.

The breakthrough came when I discovered a blend that rivaled its traditional counterpart and offered a nutritional upgrade. This eggless quiche recipe, a testament to creativity in the kitchen, promises a delightful experience that honors both health and taste.

What Is Vegan Quiche?

Vegan quiche is a plant-based version of the classic French tart, offering a delightful blend of taste and nutrition without using animal products.

It replaces traditional ingredients like eggs and cream with alternatives such as tofu, chickpea flour, or extra firm tofu for the filling, achieving a similar creamy texture. Nutritional yeast and a variety of spices are added to mimic the eggy flavor.

The crust is made from oil-based or vegan butter recipes, ensuring it’s flaky and golden. Vegan quiche is a versatile and wholesome dish filled with a colorful array of vegetables and herbs.

Fact – Did you know black salt, or kala namak, is a great option for adding an eggy flavor to vegan dishes? It’s one of the best secrets for making authentic-tasting vegan mini quiches.

Recipe Directions

Prepare Your Pie Crust

• In a food processor, combine 1 cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour, ½ tsp salt, and 1 Tbsp white granulated sugar. Pulse to mix.
• Add ¼ cup solid coconut oil to the mixture. Process until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add 4 Tbsp ice water, processing until the dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a flour-dusted surface. Roll it into a large round that covers a 9-inch pie dish.
• Carefully lift the dough, placing it over the pie dish. Tuck in the sides and trim any excess dough with scissors.
• Chill the pre-made pie crust in the fridge while preparing the filling.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Prepare Your Filling

• Blend 14 ounces of firm tofu, 1 Tbsp cornstarch, 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast, ¼ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¾ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black salt in the food processor until mixed.
• Add 2 Tbsp soy milk to the mixture. Process until smooth. Set aside.
• Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a pot. Sauté 1 chopped (green onion or yellow onion) and 1 tsp crushed garlic until the onions are soft.
• Add 2 ½ cups sliced cremini mushrooms, cooking until soft.
• Stir in 3 cups chopped baby spinach, sautéing until just wilted.
• Combine the tofu mixture with the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Fold them together gently.
• Transfer the filling into the chilled pie crust, smoothing the top evenly.
• Bake in the oven for 40 minutes, until the quiche is firm and golden.
• Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or cold.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Vegetable Variations: Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichokes for added color and nutrition.
• Protein Boost: Incorporate vegan cheese shreds or crumbled vegan sausage for a protein-rich twist.
• Herbal Flair: Fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or chives can enhance the aroma and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

• Toppings: Garnish with avocado slices, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or a sprinkle of paprika for a visually appealing finish.
• Crust Alternatives: Try a gluten-free crust or a hash brown base for a unique twist.

Vegetable Substitutions 

• Mushrooms for Meat: Cremini or portobello mushrooms offer a meaty texture, making them perfect for replacing beef or chicken in stews and stir-fries.
• Cauliflower for Chicken: Cauliflower’s versatility allows it to be used as a substitute for chicken in dishes like buffalo cauliflower wings or curries.
• Jackfruit for Pork: Young green jackfruit has a texture similar to pulled pork and is ideal in vegan barbecue dishes or tacos.
• Eggplant for Fish: When seasoned well, eggplant can mimic the texture of fish, especially in vegan versions of seafood dishes.
• Lentils for Ground Meat: Lentils are a great substitute for ground beef or turkey in recipes like Bolognese sauce, meatloaf, or tacos.
• Zucchini for Noodles: Spiralized zucchini is a low-carb, nutritious alternative to traditional pasta in dishes like spaghetti or noodle salads.
• Butternut Squash for Cheese: When pureed, butternut squash can add a creamy, cheesy consistency to vegan mac and cheese or casseroles.
• Beets for Tuna: Roasted or marinated beets can mimic the texture and color of tuna, perfect for vegan sushi or salads.

Quick Tip – For an instant flavor boost in vegan cooking, remember to incorporate a variety of spices and fresh herbs. It’s one of the simplest ways to elevate any dish.

Best Side Dishes 

• Mixed Green Salad A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche.
• Roasted Vegetables Seasonal vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, roasted to perfection, add a savory contrast.
• Quinoa Salad This colorful quinoa salad with sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon dressing is a protein-packed side dish.
• Sweet Potato Fries Baked sweet potato fries with a hint of paprika provide a sweet and spicy edge.
• Soup A bowl of creamy cherry tomatoes or butternut squash soup pairs wonderfully, especially in cooler weather.
• Sourdough Bread Fresh, crusty sourdough bread is great for dipping into the quiche’s creamy filling.
• Fruit Salad A fresh fruit salad with a mint or lime dressing can cleanse the palate and refresh the taste buds.

How To Serve?

• Brunch Brilliance: Serve slices of vegan quiche as a delightful addition to your sunday brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, toast, and plant-based sausage or tempeh bacon.
• Picnic Perfection: Pack wedges of vegan quiche in your picnic basket for a portable and satisfying meal outdoors. Pair with a side salad and some fresh berries for a complete picnic experience.
• Lunchtime Favorite: Enjoy a slice of vegan quiche as the star of your lunchtime meal. Serve with a side salad or soup for a balanced and filling midday feast.
• Party Pleaser: Cut vegan quiche into bite-sized squares or triangles and serve as an appetizer at your next gathering or party. They’re sure to be a hit among vegans and non-vegans alike.
• Dinner Delight: Pair slices of vegan quiche with roasted vegetables or a grain salad for a satisfying and comforting dinner. This versatile dish can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Quick Tip – When making vegan quiche, remember to press the tofu thoroughly. Removing excess water is key to achieving the perfect, creamy texture of the filling.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Storage: Once cooled, store the vegan quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the vegan quiche ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover the unbaked quiche with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then bake according to the recipe instructions. This is perfect for meal prep or when hosting brunch!

Fact – Did you know that using black salt (kala namak) in vegan quiche gives it an eggy flavor? This unique ingredient is the secret to mimicking the classic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Quiche Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can make vegan quiche gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend designed for baking to ensure it has the right texture and binding properties. Additionally, ensure all other ingredients, such as nutritional yeast and tofu, are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

How Can I Store Leftover Vegan Quiche, And How Long Will It Last?

Leftover vegan quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the quiche is cooled to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation. You can freeze the quiche for up to 2-3 months for longer storage. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I Use Other Vegetables Or Add-Ins For The Filling?

Absolutely. Vegan quiche is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add or substitute the vegetables in the recipe with others you prefer, such as bell peppers, artichokes, or leeks. You can also include vegan cheese for extra creaminess or vegan meats for a protein boost. Just remember to cook raw vegetables or vegan meats before adding them to the filling to ensure they’re tender and avoid excess moisture.

How Do I Know When The Vegan Quiche Is Fully Baked?

The vegan quiche is fully baked when the edges of the crust are golden brown and the filling is firm to the touch. A slight jiggle in the center is okay, as it will set further upon cooling. Inserting a toothpick or knife in the center should come out mostly clean. Baking time may vary based on your oven and the depth of your pie dish, so it’s good to start checking around the 35-minute mark.

Can I Make The Quiche Crustless For An Even Healthier Option?

Yes, you can make a crustless vegan quiche for a lower-carb and lower-calorie option. Simply oil your pie dish well to prevent sticking, and pour the filling directly into the dish. You may need to reduce the baking time slightly, so monitor the quiche as it bakes. A crustless quiche is a great way to focus on the flavorful filling and make the dish easier to prepare.