Discover the Delight of French Tarte Flambée (Alsace, France)

 Discover the Delight of French Tarte Flambé (Alsace, France)

Tarte Flambee, also known as Flammkuchen, is a traditional dish from the Alsace region of France. This delectable flatbread combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a beloved culinary treasure. Tarte Flambee features a thin, crispy crust topped with a creamy mixture of fro mage blanc (or crème fraiche), thinly sliced onions, and smoky lardons (bacon pieces). The name "Tarte Flambee" translates to "flamed tart," referring to its traditional cooking method in a wood-fired oven, which imparts a distinct, slightly charred flavor.

This dish is a perfect representation of Alsatian cuisine, which blends French and German culinary influences. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal, paired with a crisp Alsatian white wine or a cold beer. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes Tarte Flambee a delightful experience for the taste buds. Whether served at a rustic bistro in Alsace or prepared at home, Tarte Flambee offers a taste of French tradition and hospitality.

French Tarte Flambee Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 150ml water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 200g fromage blanc or crème fraiche
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 150g lardons or bacon, cut into small pieces
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, mix the flour, water, salt, and olive oil until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Toppings:

   • Preheat your oven to its highest setting (ideally 475-500°F) with a pizza stone inside.
   • In a bowl, mix the fromage blanc or crème fraiche with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg (if using).

3. Assemble the Tarte Flambee:

   • Roll out the dough on a floured surface as thin as possible, forming a large rectangle or oval.
   • Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.
   • Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Distribute the thinly sliced onions and lardons evenly over the top.

4. Bake the Tarte Flambee:

   • Transfer the assembled tarte flambee to the hot pizza stone using the parchment paper.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden, and the toppings are cooked.
   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
   • Slice and serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors and crispy texture of this Alsatian classic.