Flammekueche/ Alsatian tart

Flammekueche - Alsatian Tart

If you're looking for a delicious alternative to pizza, Flammekueche (or Alsatian tart) is the perfect choice. This thin and crispy tart, originating from regions with German and French influences, is a savory combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Made with simple ingredients, Flammekueche is easy to prepare and can be adapted to your tastes. It's perfect for a quick dinner or to impress friends at a party.

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g flour
- 100 ml water
- 50 ml oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- A pinch of salt
- 200 g bacon or smoked ham
- 200 ml cream (opt for heavy cream for a richer taste)
- 1 large onion (white or red, according to preference)
- Salt, pepper, a pinch of nutmeg

The history of Flammekueche

Flammekueche, also known as "flame cake", has its roots in the Alsace region, where it was prepared by farmers to check if the oven was hot enough to bake bread. This tart was often made with simple ingredients available in households, and today it has become a popular dish enjoyed worldwide, with a versatility that allows for countless variations.

Preparing the dough

1. Preheat the oven: Before you start preparing, preheat the oven to 220°C. If you have a grill function in your oven, it will be useful at the end to achieve a crispy crust.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, put the flour, salt, water, and oil. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients until you get a homogeneous dough. It should be elastic but not sticky.

3. Kneading the dough: Continue kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you feel the dough is too wet, you can add a little more flour.

4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. This will allow you to make two delicious tarts.

5. Rolling out the dough: Using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet, about 3 mm thick. Make sure the sheet is even for uniform baking.

Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the ingredients: Thin slices of onion and bacon are essential for that savory flavor. Cut the onion into thin rings and the bacon into small cubes.

2. Assembling the tart: On each rolled-out dough sheet, add a generous layer of cream. Sprinkle pepper and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. Then, add the sliced onion and pieces of bacon.

3. Adding seasonings: If you've used salty bacon, adjust the amount of salt you add so that the tarts don't become too salty.

Baking

1. Baking in the oven: Place the tart in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and crispy. If you want an even crispier crust, you can turn on the grill function for the last 5 minutes of baking.

2. Cooling: After removing the tart from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. This will help stabilize the filling.

Serving and variations

Flammekueche is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a glass of white wine. If you like to experiment, you can replace the bacon with mushrooms, goat cheese, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or basil for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips

- Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients for the best results. Heavy cream will provide a creamier texture, and caramelized onions can add a sweet note.
- Dough: If you want an easier option, you can use pre-made pizza dough.
- Storage: Flammekueche can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use any type of smoked meat or cheese you prefer.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the meat with mushrooms, zucchini, or goat cheese.

3. Can I freeze Flammekueche?
It's recommended to consume it fresh, but you can freeze it before baking.

Flammekueche is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Alsatian tart will surely become a favorite. Enjoy!