Introduction
Flammkuchen, also known as "Tarte Flambée," is a traditional dish from the Alsace region, on the border of Germany and France. It’s similar to pizza but made with a super-thin, crispy dough, traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons (bacon). Originally cooked in wood-fired ovens, its name comes from the flames that char the edges. Light, smoky, and flavorful, Flammkuchen is a simple yet sophisticated dish often enjoyed with a glass of wine or beer.
Ingredients
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 150 ml lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 200 g crème fraîche (or a mix of sour cream and cream cheese)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 200 g lardons (or smoked bacon, cut into strips)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the dough:
- Mix the flour, water, olive oil, and salt in a bowl until the dough comes together. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Tip: Rolling the dough out as thin as possible is key for that signature crispiness.
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Roll out the dough:
- Preheat your oven to its highest temperature (250°C or 480°F). Roll the dough thinly on a floured surface into a large rectangle or oval. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.
- Tip: If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven for a crispy crust.
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Prepare the topping:
- Mix the crème fraîche with a pinch of black pepper and nutmeg. Spread the mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Scatter the sliced onions and lardons over the top.
- Tip: Don’t overload the toppings; keep it light for the best texture.
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Bake the Flammkuchen:
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges are crispy and the toppings are golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Tip: Baking on a pizza stone gives you the crispiest result.
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Serve immediately:
- Garnish with fresh chives and cut into slices. Serve hot with a green salad or alongside a glass of white wine or beer.
- Tip: Let the Flammkuchen rest for a minute before cutting to preserve its crispy texture.
Health Notes
- Moderate fat: The dish contains high-fat toppings like crème fraîche and bacon, so enjoy in moderation.
- Balanced carbs: The thin crust provides a moderate level of carbohydrates without being overly heavy.
- Customizable: Use low-fat crème fraîche or turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve with a fresh salad and Riesling or beer to balance the richness.
- Occasions: Perfect for casual gatherings, light lunches, or appetizers at dinner parties.
- Variations: Try adding mushrooms, cheese, or caramelized onions for a twist on the classic.
Tips
- Thin crust perfection: The dough should be rolled as thin as possible for the best crispiness.
- Use a pizza stone: For an authentic result, bake on a preheated pizza stone to achieve that signature char and crisp crust.
