Description
Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen is a traditional German savory onion tart featuring a buttery crust topped with caramelized onions mixed with a creamy egg and caraway seed filling. This hearty dish is perfect as a comforting appetizer or light main course, showcasing the rich flavors of sautéed onions and subtle spice from cayenne and caraway.
Ingredients
Scale
Onion Mixture
- 4 pounds white onions, thinly sliced
- 1 stick (113g) butter
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
Egg Mixture
- 1 cup crème fraîche
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
Base and Garnish
- 1 package prepared pizza crust (about 12-inch round)
- Butter, to drizzle (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Fresh chives, a pinch, finely chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced white onions and sauté gently until they are lightly caramelized and soft, about 20-30 minutes. Season with kosher salt and cayenne pepper to taste, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the crème fraîche, eggs, and caraway seeds until fully combined. Adjust seasoning if needed. Allow the mixture to come to room temperature while the onions finish cooking.
- Combine Mixtures: Once the onions have cooled slightly, mix them thoroughly into the egg and crème fraîche mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Tart: Roll out or place the prepared pizza crust onto a baking sheet or pizza pan. Evenly spread the onion and egg mixture over the surface of the crust. Drizzle with a little butter over the top to enrich the flavor and help browning during baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tart in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the onion topping is heated through and the cream mixture has set firmly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Cut into portions and sprinkle with freshly chopped chives before serving. Enjoy your Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen warm.
Notes
- The slow caramelization of the onions is key to building deep, sweet flavors; be patient and stir frequently.
- If you cannot find prepared pizza crust, a simple homemade dough or puff pastry can be used as alternatives.
- Caraway seeds add a classic flavor to this dish but can be omitted or replaced with fennel seeds for a different twist.
- This onion tart pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or light beer.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated; best consumed within 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Savory Tart
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Keywords: Schwäbischer Zwiebelkuchen, German onion tart, caramelized onion tart, savory tart, traditional German recipe, onion pie
