Onion pie

Onion Pie: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Treat

If you are looking for a recipe that combines simplicity with savory flavor, onion pie is the perfect choice. This dish, although it may seem unusual, will surprise your taste buds with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the light texture of the dough. Once you taste it, you will never look at onions the same way again. It is a recipe that evokes family meals, moments spent around the table, and the joy of sharing delicious dishes with loved ones.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 150 g butter (make sure it is at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 250 g flour

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg onions (peeled and finely chopped)
- 100 ml olive oil (opt for high-quality oil for better taste)
- 4 eggs
- 50 g smoked or baked bacon for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 egg yolks mixed with 200 g sour cream, for brushing (this will give a golden and delicious crust)

Step by Step: Making the Onion Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. It is important to prepare the oven in advance to ensure even baking of the pie.

2. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a baking tray with a little butter or oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the pie from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking.

3. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, eggs, salt, sugar, baking soda, and flour. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you get a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Place the dough in the prepared tray, covering both the bottom and the edges.

5. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat, stirring constantly until they become soft and lightly caramelized. This will take about 10-15 minutes. After the onions have cooled slightly, combine them in a bowl with the beaten eggs, diced bacon, thyme, salt, and pepper.

6. Fill the pie: Pour the onion filling over the dough in the tray, spreading it evenly. Then, brush the pie with the yolk and sour cream mixture for a golden and delicious crust.

7. Bake the pie: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the pie bake for 50 minutes, or until golden and nicely browned.

8. Serving: Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. It is also perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Practical Tips:

- Onion: Choose sweet onions for a more pleasant taste. Red or yellow onions can add a special note.
- Bacon: You can replace the bacon with ham or even a vegetarian option like tofu or mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Thyme: If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount by half, as it is more concentrated.
- Variations: You can add feta or ricotta cheese to the filling to enhance the flavor of the pie.

Nutritional Benefits:

Onion pie provides a good source of fiber due to the onions, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the eggs provide quality protein, while olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can the onion pie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pie, ensuring it is well covered. When you want to consume it, let it thaw in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
Experimentation is key! You can add olives, peppers, or even fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.

3. How can I make the pie spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add chili flakes to the filling mixture or use a spicy sausage instead of bacon.

This onion pie is not just a delicious dish but also an opportunity to enjoy cooking and experimenting with flavors. Whether you prepare it for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, it is sure to be a hit! Enjoy every slice and every moment spent in the kitchen!