Alsatian pie

Alsatian pie: a rustic and savory delicacy

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn’t love a warm pie with a crispy crust and a creamy, flavorful filling? The Alsatian pie is a simple yet impactful recipe that will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of comfort at any time of the day. This traditional recipe uses accessible ingredients and is perfect for family meals as well as special occasions.

A brief history of the Alsatian pie

This pie has deep roots in culinary tradition, originating from a region with a rich gastronomic heritage. It is a perfect example of simplicity and flavor, reflecting how simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. Over time, the recipe has been adapted and personalized, with each housewife contributing her touch, making this dish a unique delicacy.

Necessary ingredients

For the pie crust:
- 400 g flour
- 4 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 250 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (or a packet of dry yeast)

For the filling:
- 300 g sour cream (thick sour cream or crème double is ideal; if too thick, you can dilute it with 100 ml of cream)
- 5 medium onions
- 200 g smoked bacon (cut into cubes or thin slices)
- Vegeta (or any preferred spice mix)
- Freshly ground pepper

Step by step: Preparing the Alsatian pie

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast. If using fresh yeast, it’s good to dissolve it first in 50 ml of warm water. Then add the oil and the remaining water. Mix well with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are well combined. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

2. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, until it doubles in volume. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and well-aerated crust.

3. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, peel the onions and slice them thinly. In a pan, add the chopped bacon and fry it over medium heat until it becomes slightly crispy. Then, add the onions and continue to cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. This step will add a deep and savory flavor to the filling.

4. Assembling the pie: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface, forming a thin sheet. Transfer the dough to a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are raised to hold the filling.

5. Adding the filling: Spread the sour cream evenly over the dough, then add the onion and bacon mixture. Sprinkle Vegeta and freshly ground pepper over the filling, adjusting the quantities to your personal taste.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to maximum temperature (about 220-250°C) and bake the pie for 15-20 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy. The smell will fill the house, announcing that the pie is almost ready!

7. Serving: Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it into portions. It is delicious served warm, but even the next day, slightly reheated in the microwave, it remains just as tasty. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a glass of chilled white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Tips and tricks

- If you want to add a touch of freshness, try adding some fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, to the onion and bacon filling.
- Experiment with different types of meat, such as lard or sausages, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms, which add a rich flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for this dough?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of water since whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

2. Can I freeze the Alsatian pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well and thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of this pie?
The Alsatian pie contains carbohydrates from the flour, proteins from the bacon and sour cream, as well as vitamins and minerals from the onions. Consuming this dish in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

The Alsatian pie is not only a delicious dish but also a great way to gather your family around the table to share pleasant moments. Experiment, adapt the recipe, and enjoy every bite!