Authentic German Onion Pie (Schwabischer Zwiebelkuchen)

🥨🧅🥧 Authentic German Onion Pie (Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen) 🇩🇪

History:
Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen is a traditional German dish that originated in the Swabian region of Germany. The Swabians are known for their hearty and delicious cuisine, and this savory onion pie is no exception. It has been enjoyed for generations, especially during the autumn season when onions are plentiful.

Components:

• Onions: Onions are the star of this dish. They are usually thinly sliced, providing a sweet and savory flavor to the pie.
• Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon is often used to add a smoky and salty element.
• Dough: The base of the pie is made from a simple yeasted dough, similar to pizza dough or a bread dough.
• Eggs: Eggs are mixed with cream and sometimes sour cream to create a custard-like filling.
• Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • Mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 package of dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2/3 cup of lukewarm milk.
   • Knead the dough until it’s smooth, then cover and let it rise for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large pan, fry about 1 lb of thinly sliced onions with 4-6 strips of bacon until they become tender and slightly browned.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds for that distinct flavor.

3. Prepare the Custard:

   • Whisk together 2 eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1/2 cup of sour cream.

4. Assemble the Pie:

   • Roll out the dough and place it in a greased pie or tart pan, leaving some overhang.
   • Spread the onion and bacon mixture over the dough.

5. Add the Custard:

   • Pour the custard mixture over the onions.

6. Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pie for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s set and slightly golden.

7. Serve:

   • Allow the pie to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm. It’s traditionally served with a glass of young white wine.

Time Needed:
The total time to prepare authentic German Onion Pie varies, but it typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, including dough preparation and baking time. It’s worth noting that a good portion of this time is for dough rising. The actual hands-on time is less, making it a perfect dish for a cozy weekend meal.

Enjoy your delicious slice of Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen! 🇩🇪🥧🧅🥓🍷

🥧 Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Authentic German Onion Pie (Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen) 🇩🇪

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving (1/8 of a pie).
• Protein: About 8-10 grams per serving.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving.
• Fat: Around 18-20 grams per serving.
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams per serving.

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen is moderately calorie-dense. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.

2. Protein: The pie contains a decent amount of protein, mostly from the eggs and bacon, which can help you feel full and satisfied.

3. Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates mainly come from the dough and onions. While this is not a low-carb dish, the complex carbs in the dough can provide sustained energy.

4. Fat: The bacon and cream contribute to the fat content. It’s essential to consume such foods in moderation due to their saturated fat content.

5. Fiber: The pie contains some fiber, primarily from the onions. Fiber is good for digestive health.

6. Sodium: The bacon and added salt can make this dish relatively high in sodium. If you are on a low-sodium diet, be mindful of the salt content.

7. Vitamins and Minerals: Onions are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

8. Balance: Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen is a hearty and indulgent dish, so it’s best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or are looking for a healthier version, you can consider modifications like using leaner bacon or reducing the amount of cream and bacon in the recipe.