Begin your culinary journey by preparing the distinctive pine nut crust. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat pastry flour, unbleached white flour, sea salt, and baking powder. Introduce pine nuts to this dry mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly integrated. Incorporate ice-cold olive oil, gently tossing to form small clusters, then add just enough ice-cold water to bring the dough together without overworking it. Shape the dough into a disk, roll it out, and carefully place it into a 9-inch tart pan. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for half an hour, then pre-bake for ten minutes before adding the filling.
Next, construct the savory filling. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, warm a portion of the extra-virgin olive oil. Add diced onion and a medley of wild mushrooms, sautéing for about ten minutes until softened. Introduce dry white wine or water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits. Season with sea salt and continue cooking until all liquid has evaporated. Incorporate finely chopped Swiss chard, allowing it to wilt gently into the mushroom mixture. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
For the creamy base, heat the remaining olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced garlic, fresh herbs (oregano and thyme), and a pinch of red pepper flakes, simmering until the garlic turns lightly golden. Transfer this aromatic mixture to a food processor. Crumble in firm tofu, add freshly squeezed lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and white miso. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth, velvety consistency. Season to taste with additional salt if needed.
Combine the smooth tofu mixture with the sautéed wild mushroom and Swiss chard blend, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients. Spoon this rich filling into your pre-baked crust, smoothing the top to create an even surface. Lightly dust with smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal. Bake the quiche in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 35 minutes, or until it is set and golden. This delightful vegan quiche is a versatile dish; feel free to experiment with other leafy greens in place of Swiss chard for a unique twist.
This remarkable quiche showcases the immense potential of vegan gastronomy, transforming traditional dishes into innovative, plant-powered creations. It’s a harmonious blend of earthy wild mushrooms, verdant Swiss chard, and a rich, creamy tofu base, all encased in a delicate pine nut crust. Every bite reveals a symphony of textures and flavors, proving that conscious eating can be both profoundly satisfying and incredibly delicious. This recipe is not merely a meal; it’s an experience that encourages exploration and celebrates the abundance of nature’s pantry.