Calabrese pizza is a mouthwatering Italian dish that brings the authentic flavors of Calabria, Italy, to your table. This pizza is known for its spicy kick from Calabrian chiles and its savory toppings, making it a perfect choice for spice lovers. With a crispy crust, melted cheese, and a deliciously spicy tomato sauce, this Calabrese pizza is a must-try for any Calabrese pizza enthusiast.
Why You’ll Love This Calabrese Pizza
- Authentic Italian Flavor: Enjoy the traditional taste of Calabria with every bite.
- Spicy and Savory: The combination of Calabrian chiles and savory toppings creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this pizza a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chile paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup sliced Calabrian chiles
- 1 cup thinly sliced soppressata (Italian dry salami)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, Calabrian chile paste, dried oregano, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a 12-inch round on a floured surface.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Spread a layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Arrange the soppressata slices and Calabrian chiles on top of the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
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Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Barbera.
How to Store Calabrese Pizza
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Additional Tips
- Dough Substitution: Use store-bought pizza dough for a quicker option.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
- Troubleshooting: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of water.
