A famous culinary speciality, Quiche Lorraine gets its name from the German word Kuchen, meaning cake. Though today it is a savoury flan, usually served hot, with shortcrust pastry, smoked bacon, eggs, cream, milk, salt and pepper, this was not the case in the past. In fact, before the 19th century, bacon was not used, only cheese, eggs, milk, butter and cream. Today grated Gruyèreis often sprinkled on top, or chives. There is also a version from Alsace which includes small onions previously cooked in butter.
Though quiche lorraine is most often served hot, with a green side salad, it can also be eaten cold as a starter or for a picnic.