Tarte Flambée (Alsatian Pizza) Recipe

Tarte Flambée, often referred to as Alsatian Pizza, is a delicious dish that hails from the beautiful region of Alsace in northeastern France. This *thin-crust pizza* is topped with creamy cheese, flavorful onions, and crispy bacon, making it a favorite among many! The dish has a rich cultural history, originating from the rustic kitchens of Alsace where it was used to test oven temperatures before baking bread. It symbolizes the hearty and comforting cuisine of this region.

People love Tarte Flambée for its unique combination of textures and flavors; it’s crispy, creamy, and bursting with savory goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it at a restaurant or making it at home, this dish brings a taste of Alsace right to your table. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

*Note: You can use sour cream as an alternative to crème fraîche if you prefer a tangy flavor.*

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the *all-purpose flour*, *salt*, *olive oil*, and *water*. Mix until a dough forms. Knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth. Cover it with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Toppings: While the dough is resting, slice the *onions* thinly and chop the *bacon* or lardons into small pieces.

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest setting (around 250°C or 482°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

4. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a thin rectangle or circle, about 2-3 mm thick.

5. Add the Toppings: Spread the *crème fraîche* evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the *sliced onions* and *bacon* on top. Finally, add the *grated cheese*.

6. Bake: Carefully transfer the Tarte Flambée to the hot oven (or pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve: Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice it into pieces and enjoy your homemade Tarte Flambée!

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

– Crispier Crust: For a *crispier crust*, roll the dough thinner and bake it on a preheated pizza stone.
– Vegetarian Option: Replace the *bacon* with *mushrooms* or add extra vegetables like *peppers* and *zucchini*.
– Seasoning: Feel free to sprinkle some fresh *herbs* like thyme or chives on top before baking for additional flavor.

FAQs

What is Tarte Flambée?

Tarte Flambée is a traditional dish from Alsace, similar to pizza, made with a thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.

Can I make Tarte Flambée without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with *vegetables* or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven for best results.

Can I freeze Tarte Flambée?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with Tarte Flambée?

Tarte Flambée pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or can be served as an appetizer at gatherings.

Is Tarte Flambée the same as pizza?

While they share similarities, Tarte Flambée has a *thinner crust* and uses *crème fraîche* instead of tomato sauce.

How spicy is Tarte Flambée?

Tarte Flambée is not spicy; it has a mild, creamy flavor with the savory taste of bacon and onions.

What type of cheese is best for Tarte Flambée?

*Gruyère* cheese is commonly used, but you can also use *mozzarella* or *emmental* for a different taste.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before using it.

What if I can’t find crème fraîche?

You can use *sour cream* or even *Greek yogurt* as a substitute for crème fraîche in this recipe.

Now that you know how to make Tarte Flambée, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating this delicious dish at home!