Gluten-free vegan quiche that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Yes, please! This recipe is a game-changer crows-pleasing recipe, offering a delightful blend of creamy filling and a flaky, buttery crust that's sure to impress.
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Discover Gluten-Free Vegan Quiche
In the midst of a world that sometimes feels like it's spinning too fast, there's something incredibly grounding about stepping into the kitchen. It's a place where I've found solace and joy, particularly during the challenging times we've all faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
I've been eager to share this recipe for a vegan quiche, especially the gluten-free pie crust, for quite some time. It's a dish that's close to my heart, a delightful blend of creamy, savory filling and a flaky, buttery crust that's entirely vegan and gluten-free. It's a testament to the fact that dietary restrictions don't mean compromising on flavor or texture.
This recipe was born out of a successful experiment with vegan Brazilian cheese bread, another favorite in my kitchen. The joy of that success spurred me on to tackle this classic dish in a vegan and gluten-free form.
During the pandemic, my family and I found comfort in our kitchen, creating recipes, making art, and simply being together. It was a sanctuary amidst the uncertainty, a place where I could nourish my loved ones and find a sense of control in a world that felt chaotic.
So, while it might seem unusual to share such a bright, celebratory recipe in these times, I believe in the power of normalcy and the joy of remembering those brighter moments. Let's continue to cook good food, be kind to ourselves and others, and treat ourselves well with healthy food, movement, and laughter.
And if you're running low on fresh produce, don't worry. I've got you covered with a post on easy recipes you can make with pantry items. Remember, you don't need to make fancy meals to stay healthy or treat yourself. Set the table nicely, light a candle, play some soothing music, and enjoy your meal. Like this easy vegan quiche, for example (wink wink).
So, let's dive in and create something delicious together. Here's my gluten-free vegan quiche recipe, a dish that's as nourishing and comforting as it is delightful.
👪Why your family will love this recipe
simplify mealtime and add some excitement to your regular menu. Here's why my family, and yours will fall in love with this recipe:
- Easier than it looks: While fancy, it's surprisingly easy to make. And if the thought of making a homemade gluten-free crust feels a bit daunting, there's no shame in using a store-bought one.
- Perfect for any meal: This quiche isn't just for breakfast. It's hearty enough to serve for lunch or dinner, too. Plus, it's great for leftovers.
- Gets tofu into your diet: The creamy, cheesy filling is a crowd-pleaser, and you can customize the toppings to suit everyone's tastes.
A Note for Picky Eaters
If you're dealing with picky eaters, this gluten-free vegan quiche might just be the secret weapon you've been looking for. Here's why:
- Familiar flavors: The creamy tofu filling mimics the taste and texture of traditional quiche, making it a familiar and comforting dish.
- Customizable toppings: Let your picky eaters choose their own toppings. When kids have a say in what goes into their food, they're more likely to eat it.
- Fun to eat: There's something fun about eating a slice of quiche. It's like having a piece of pie for dinner!
o my delight, this recipe was a hit with all three of my kids. For my little one with a sensitive palate, I left a small section of the quiche without any toppings and served them on the side instead. This simple trick helps to not overwhelm his taste buds, and I've found that he's more open to trying new dishes when they're deconstructed in this way. If you're interested in more strategies like this, you can find additional tips for picky eaters here.
⏲️ Time-saving tip
- Prep Ahead: One of the best time-saving tips I can offer is to prep your ingredients ahead of time. You can mix your flours and spices for the crust, prepare your flax egg, and even crumble your tofu the night before. Store these prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge, and when it's time to cook, you'll have everything ready to go. This can be a real game-changer on those busy weekday mornings!
- Embrace Store-Bought Shortcuts: While homemade is always wonderful, don't be afraid to use store-bought shortcuts when you're pressed for time. There are some great gluten-free pie crusts available in the market that can save you time. Also, pre-chopped veggies can be a lifesaver for the topping. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. It's perfectly okay to take some shortcuts!
Remember, the goal is to create a delicious meal that your family will love, not to stress yourself out in the process. Enjoy the journey, and remember that every step you take towards healthier eating is a victory in itself.
🧠Brain Benefits
- Protein-Rich: This vegan quiche is packed with protein, primarily from tofu. Did you know that dietary protein has a significant impact on brain health? It provides the necessary amino acids for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are crucial for cognitive function (1).
- Vitamins and Minerals: The ingredients in this recipe, particularly the veggies and tofu, are rich in essential vitamins and minerals which play a vital role in brain health. Vitamins and minerals contribute to the maintenance and development of brain function and can even lower the risk of certain neurological disorders (2,3).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: While not a primary ingredient in this recipe, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, play a major role in brain health and are critical in the first few years of life (2,4)! You can increase the content in this recipe by adding some hemp or chia seeds!
Please note that while these benefits are backed by scientific research, individual results may vary, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
🥦Ingredients
Ingredients for gluten-free crust
Ingredients for tofu filling
If you're on the hunt for a delicious, easy vegan quiche with a homemade gluten-free crust, you've come to the right place. Here's what you'll need:
Full recipe quantities are in the recipe card below
For the Gluten-Free Pie Crust:
- Almond Flour: I love using almond flour for its nutty flavor and it's a great gluten-free option.
- Cassava Flour & Tapioca Flour: These flours give the crust a light and flaky texture.
- Garlic Powder & Salt: For that extra flavor kick in the crust.
- Flax in Water: This acts as our egg substitute, helping to bind the crust together.
- Plant Milk & Vegan Butter: These add moisture and fat, making the crust tender and delicious.
For the Quiche Filling:
- Firm Tofu: This is our main protein source, and it gives the quiche a creamy texture.
- Nutritional Yeast & Tapioca Flour: These add a cheesy flavor and help thicken the filling.
- Mustard, Garlic Powder & Black Salt: These seasonings add depth of flavor to the filling. Black salt (kala namak) is a great recipe for adding that egg flavor to an egg-free recipe.
Optional Toppings:
- Tomato & Onion Slices: These add a fresh and tangy flavor contrast.
- Chopped Spinach: For a pop of color and added nutrients.
- Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These add a nice crunch and are packed with brain-boosting nutrients.
If you need a smaller amount, feel free to half the recipe and use a small pie pan like this one here. However, this pie will keep in the fridge and makes perfect leftovers!
With these ingredients, you're all set to whip up a scrumptious gluten-free vegan quiche that's sure to impress. Let's get cooking!
💭Recipe tips & tricks
- Use black salt: One of the secrets to making a vegan dish taste like a traditional quiche is using black salt, also known as Kala Namak. This salt has a unique sulfurous taste that mimics the flavor of eggs. Don't be put off by the smell; once it's cooked, it will give your quiche that authentic eggy flavor.
- Getting the crust right: When making the gluten-free crust, remember that the texture before baking should be slightly crumbly. Don't worry if it doesn't feel like traditional pie dough; once you press it into the pan and bake it, it will hold its shape beautifully. If it's too crumbly, don't hesitate to add a bit more plant milk.
- Perfecting the filling: The tofu filling should be thick but pourable. If it's too runny, add a bit more tapioca flour. If it's too thick, a splash more plant milk will do the trick. Remember, the filling will firm up as it bakes, so a little bit of pourability is a good thing.
Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in the journey as much as the destination. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious gluten-free vegan quiche, and don't be afraid to put your own spin on it. Happy cooking!
👩🏽🍳Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Mix the Dough Ingredients
Making a homemade gluten-free crust is easier than you might think. Start by combining your flours and spices in a large bowl. Then, add in the cold, cubed vegan butter. I personally love using my hands for this part - it's a bit messy but it's the best way to break the butter apart. If you're not a fan of getting your hands dirty, a spoon works just fine too.
Once your mixture is clumpy, add in your flax egg and plant milk. This will make the dough start to get nice and sticky and begin to form. It will still be slightly crumbly, but don't worry - that's exactly what you want. When you press it into the pan later, it will hold its shape perfectly.
Pro tip: If your dough is still very crumbly, feel free to add a tad more plant milk.
Step 2: Press the Dough into the Quiche Pan
Now that your dough is ready, dump it into an oiled quiche or pie pan. Using your hands, press the dough down and spread it across the pan. Keep spreading until the dough covers the entire surface of the pan, including the sides. If you have any excess dough, just remove it. You want the pie crust to be even with no major lumpy spots.
Once it's spread out, take a fork and poke some holes into the dough. This will help the crust bake evenly and allow steam to escape, preventing bubbles.
Step 3: Pre-Bake the Crust
Before you fill the crust with the quiche filling, you'll want to bake it for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. This pre-baking step will give the crust a drier and more crunchy texture, which is exactly what you want for a perfect quiche.
Step 4: Prepare the Tofu Filling
While your gluten-free pie crust is baking, go ahead and make the tofu mixture. This part is super simple. Just place all the filling ingredients into a food processor and process until nice and smooth. The filling should be pourable but thick.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Turn your oven up to 375 degrees and remove the quiche crust. Pour the quiche filling into the pie crust and spread evenly with a spoon. Next, top with any toppings you want to use. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes. If you want the top to be slightly crispy and golden, you can turn the heat up for the last minute.
Before serving let your veggie quiche sit for 5 minutes before cutting into individual slices! For some extra flavor sprinkle on some vegan parm, or mix together nutritional yeast and hemp seeds!
Pro tip: If you decide to add mushrooms, I suggest cooking them beforehand. Mushrooms release a bit of water when you cook them, so for best results, it's best to cook them down before adding them as a topping to this pie.
Remember, cooking is an art, and you're the artist. Feel free to make this eggless quiche recipe your own! Happy cooking!
🥬Substitutions & Variations
Substitutions
- Pie Crust: If you're short on time or prefer not to make your own crust, you can easily substitute it with a store-bought gluten-free pie crust. Just ensure it meets your dietary needs.
- Tofu: While firm tofu is recommended for this recipe, you can also use silken tofu for a creamier texture. Just remember, the texture of your quiche will change slightly. You may have to adjust the bake time and flour needed for the filling.
- Nutritional Yeast: If you don't have nutritional yeast on hand, you can substitute it with a vegan cheese of your choice. It will still give your quiche that cheesy flavor.
- Almond Flour: If you're allergic to nuts or simply don't have almond flour, you can use another type of gluten-free flour in your crust. A blend of rice and oat flour can work well. Just remember, different flours absorb liquids at different rates, so you may need to adjust the quantity of plant milk accordingly.
- Mustard: If you don't have mustard, you can use a bit of vinegar or lemon juice mixed with a pinch of turmeric or horseradish. This will give a similar tangy flavor that mustard provides. Alternatively, you can simply omit it, but keep in mind that mustard adds a depth of flavor to the quiche filling.
Variations
- Vegan Spinach Quiche: For a green twist, add a handful of fresh or frozen spinach to the tofu filling. It's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
- Crustless Vegan Quiche: If you're looking to cut down on carbs or just want to try something different, you can make this quiche without the crust. Just pour the tofu filling directly into a well-greased pie dish and bake.
- Caramelized Onions: For an extra burst of flavor, add some caramelized onions to your quiche. The sweetness of the onions pairs beautifully with the savory tofu filling.
- Cheesy Quiche: If you're a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some vegan cheese on top of your quiche before baking. It adds a delightful cheesy crust that's hard to resist.
Remember, the beauty of this tofu quiche recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different veggies and seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy!
🥡Storage
In the Fridge:
Storing leftovers from this gluten-free vegan quiche is a breeze. Simply cover it with parchment paper, plastic wrap, or transfer it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead vegan breakfast casserole for those busy weekday mornings.
Reheating:
When you're ready to enjoy your quiche again, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until it's warmed through. This will help maintain the texture and flavor that makes this dish so delightful. It's almost like enjoying a traditional quiche fresh out of the oven all over again!
Freezing:
While it's common to freeze many dishes for later use, I wouldn't recommend freezing this particular recipe. I've tried it, and while the quiche was still tasty after being frozen, the texture of the tofu filling changed and became a bit more spongy. So, for the best experience, it's best to enjoy your gluten-free vegan quiche within a few days of making it.
❔FAQ
In a vegan or egg-free quiche, tofu is a fantastic replacement for eggs. It provides a creamy texture and can be flavored to mimic the taste of traditional quiche.
If your quiche isn't creamy, it might be due to the type of tofu used. For a creamy texture, use firm tofu and blend it until smooth. Follow the recipe instructions to ensure the texture of your filling has the correct consistency for the best results.
If you prefer not to use a pie crust, you can make a crustless quiche or use a vegetable like thinly sliced sweet potatoes or zucchini as a crust.
Gluten-free pie crust can be tricky. If it's not turning out, it could be due to the type of flour used or the amount of liquid in the dough. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and remember, the dough should be slightly crumbly before baking.
🥣Make this next…
I hope you enjoyed this easy recipe for vegan pie crust and quiche filling. If you are looking for more easy breakfast or delicious gluten-free recipes check out these:
If you make any of these recipes please like and comment, that would mean a lot to me! And tag me with your re-creations so I can share over on Instagram! Until then, tchau
📖 Recipe
Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Quiche Recipe
Equipment
- Food processor
- Quiche or pie pan
- optional smaller quiche pan
Ingredients
Gluten free pie crust
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup cassava flour
- ¼ cup tapioca flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tbsp flax in 4 tablespoon water
- 4 tablespoon plant milk I used oat
- 4 tablespoon vegan butter cold and cubed
Quiche filling
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoon tapioca flour
- 1½ tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tsp black salt
Optional toppings
- 1 tomato sliced
- ¼ onion sliced
- ½ cup spinach choppeed
- ¼ pumpkin seeds roasted
Instructions
Make the crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your flax egg by mixing the flax with water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix the flours, garlic powder, and salt for the crust in a bowl. Add the cold cubed butter and mix until crumbly. Add the flax egg and plant milk and mix until the dough forms.Note: the dough should be slightly crumbly- that's exactly what you want. When you press it into the pan later, it will hold its shape perfectly. If your dough is very crumbly and wont come together, slowly add small amoutns of plant milk until it comes together.
- Press the dough into an oiled quiche or pie pan, ensuring it covers the entire surface, including the sides. Poke some holes in the dough with a fork.
- Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the tofu filling by blending all the filling ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- Pour the filling onto the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Add your chosen toppings.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly crispy and golden.
Nutrition
Information Source:
- Gomez-Pinilla, F. (2008). Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(7), 568-578.
- da Costa, B. P., Pimenta, A. M., Delgado, I., & Vaz Patto, J. (2020). Fish: A Mediterranean source of n-3 PUFA – Benefits do not justify limiting consumption. British Journal of Nutrition, 123(4), 382-403.
- Smith, A. D., & Refsum, H. (2016). Vitamin B-12 and cognition in the e lderly. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 103(2), 616S-621S
- Craig, W. J. (2009). Health effects of vegan diets. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 89(5).
