Flammekueche: A Delicious Taste of Alsace
Welcome to the wonderful world of Flammekueche, a delightful dish originating from the Alsace region of France! This tasty dish is similar to pizza but has its unique flavors and history. Traditionally, Flammekueche, also known as tarte flambée, was made by Alsatian farmers who would use the excess bread dough to bake in their wood-fired ovens. Its name literally means “flame cake,” which hints at its cooking method.
What makes Flammekueche so popular? Well, it’s not just delicious; it’s also easy to prepare and can be customized with various toppings. Whether you enjoy a classic version with onions and bacon or prefer a vegetarian twist, Flammekueche is sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cream cheese or crème fraîche | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1 large, thinly sliced |
| Bacon or lardons | 1 cup, diced |
| Fresh chives (optional) | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
Note: You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option, and use mushrooms instead of bacon for a vegetarian version!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Prepare the toppings: In a pan, cook the bacon or lardons over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the sliced onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin rectangle or circle. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer it onto a baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
- Assemble the Flammekueche: Spread the cream cheese or crème fraîche evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with sautéed onions and crispy bacon.
- Bake it: Place the Flammekueche in the oven (or on the pizza stone) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped chives if desired, slice, and enjoy your homemade Flammekueche!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugars | 1g | – |
Tips and Tricks
- Thin crust: Make sure to roll your dough very thin for that authentic crispy texture!
- Try different toppings: Experiment with mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses for a unique twist.
- Don’t over-bake: Keep an eye on your Flammekueche to avoid burning the edges—golden is perfect!
- Serve hot: Flammekueche is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
What is Flammekueche?
Flammekueche is a traditional Alsatian dish, similar to pizza, featuring a thin crust topped with cream, onions, and bacon.
Can I make Flammekueche vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing bacon with veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
How do I store leftover Flammekueche?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can Flammekueche be frozen?
You can freeze Flammekueche before baking. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, then bake from frozen.
What should I serve with Flammekueche?
Flammekueche pairs well with a fresh salad or a chilled white wine. It’s a perfect meal for gatherings!
Is Flammekueche gluten-free?
Traditional Flammekueche is not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free version.
How long does it take to prepare Flammekueche?
The total time for making Flammekueche is about 1 hour, including preparation and baking time.
Can I add cheese to Flammekueche?
Absolutely! Adding cheese like Gruyère can add extra flavor and creaminess to your Flammekueche.
What type of onions should I use?
Sweet onions or yellow onions are great choices for a flavorful Flammekueche. White onions can also be used for a sharper taste.
Is there a sauce for Flammekueche?
Flammekueche typically does not use a sauce; instead, it uses a base of cream or crème fraîche.
Now that you know how to make this delicious Flammekueche, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy this amazing dish that brings a taste of Alsace right to your kitchen!
