Tarte Flambée

Introduction to Tarte Flambée

Tarte Flambée, also known as "Flammekueche" in the Alsace region, is a traditional dish hailing from northeastern France. This delectable treat offers a crispy crust topped with rich crème fraîche, savory bacon, and sweet onions. It is similar to a pizza but carries its own unique flavor profile, chiefly due to the use of crème fraîche instead of tomato sauce. Tarte Flambée has a fascinating history rooted in the rural traditions of Alsace farmers. It was originally created to test the heat of a wood-fired oven when bakers prepared their bread. Tarte Flambée was quickly embraced for its simple yet delectable taste.

Ingredients

• Flour - 250g
• Water - 125ml
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Yeast - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Crème Fraîche - 200g
• Bacon - 100g, sliced
• Onions - 1 large, thinly sliced
• Nutmeg - a pinch
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Chives - for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Begin by combining flour, water, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Mix well until a dough forms. Add in the olive oil and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rest for about 1 hour in a warm place, covered with a cloth.

Step 2: Preparing the Toppings

While the dough is rising, you can prepare the toppings. Thinly slice the onions and bacon. In a small bowl, mix the crème fraîche with a pinch of nutmeg and black pepper.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Assembling the Tarte Flambée

After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to its highest setting or about 500°F (260°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is extraordinarily thin, almost paper-like, yet large enough to hold your toppings. Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza stone.

Step 4: Adding the Toppings

Spread the crème fraîche mixture evenly over the dough, being sure to cover the edges. Evenly distribute the sliced onions and bacon over the top.

Step 5: Baking the Tarte Flambée

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the toppings are cooked through. Use a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing. If using a wood-fired oven, the cooking time will be reduced to 2-3 minutes.

How to Enjoy

Tarte Flambée is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for added flavor and color. This delightful dish can be paired beautifully with a chilled glass of Alsatian wine for an authentic experience. Share it with friends and family as an appetizer, or enjoy it as a main dish along with a simple green salad.