What is the function of flour in a quiche?

Flour plays a crucial role in a quiche, contributing to its structure and texture:

* Binding agent: Flour acts as a binder in the quiche crust, holding the ingredients together and creating a cohesive dough. This helps to prevent the crust from crumbling and ensures it holds its shape.

* Structure and texture: Flour provides the foundation for the crust, giving it its characteristic crispness and texture. The gluten in flour creates a strong network that supports the filling and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.

* Flavor: Flour itself has a subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients in the quiche. It also absorbs the flavors of the filling, enriching the overall taste.

* Crispness: The flour helps create a crisp crust, which provides a pleasing contrast to the creamy filling.

While some quiche recipes might omit flour entirely, opting for a crust made primarily of cheese or breadcrumbs, flour remains a common ingredient in most traditional quiches.