Onion cake

Onion Pie – A Savory Treat with Onion and Ham

Who can resist a dish that combines the strong aroma of caramelized onions with the delicate flavor of smoked ham, all supported by a fluffy crust? Onion pie, or Zwiebelkuchen, is a delicious appetizer, perfect for a family dinner or to be served at a party. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, reminds us of the comfort found in simple yet flavorful dishes.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 375 g flour
- 50 g butter
- 1 egg
- 150 ml milk
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of sugar
- 1 packet of dry yeast

For the filling:
- 1 kg onions
- 30 g butter
- 125 g smoked ham (diced)

For the filling sauce:
- 250 g liquid cream
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step by step

1. Preparing the crust: Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan, adding the butter. Stir gently until the butter is completely melted. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the dry yeast and mix well. Gradually pour the milk and butter mixture over the dry ingredients, then add the egg. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, similar to pizza dough. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for 35 minutes.

2. Preparing the onions: Meanwhile, peel and chop the onions. In a skillet, heat 30 g of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 10-15 minutes. Add the diced ham and continue to sauté the mixture until the ham becomes aromatic and lightly browned. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool.

3. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Grease a round baking dish or a standard baking tray with butter. Roll out the dough into an even layer, ensuring it reaches the edges. Add the onion and ham mixture on top of the dough.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk the liquid cream with the two eggs, adding salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce evenly over the onion and ham filling.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and slightly crispy on top.

6. Serving: Onion pie is delicious both warm and cold. Serve it as an appetizer alongside a fresh green salad or with a glass of dry white wine.

Helpful tips

- Onions: Choose sweet onions for a milder taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can use red onions.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as bacon or sausages, or even add grated cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Storage: The pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves the next day.

Nutritional benefits

This onion and ham pie is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the ham and eggs, and contains fiber from the onions. It’s a great choice for a hearty meal, offering a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid, as whole wheat flour absorbs more.

How can I make the pie easier to digest?
You can reduce the amount of ham or replace it with a leaner option, such as smoked turkey.

What drinks pair well with Zwiebelkuchen?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a pale beer are excellent options that complement the flavors of the pie.

Conclusion

Zwiebelkuchen is not just a recipe; it’s a journey into the world of flavors and culinary traditions. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of cooking take over! Enjoy!