Pizza a la Vasile - with fluffy crust

Pizza a la Vasile - with fluffy crust and delicious toppings

Who doesn't love pizza? This Italian delicacy has won the hearts of people all over the world, becoming a symbol of conviviality and joyful gatherings. Today's recipe, Pizza a la Vasile, features a fluffy and aromatic crust, perfect for sharing with loved ones. I will guide you step by step in preparing this tasty dish that will delight any meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 30-60 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Ingredients for the dough:
- 600 g flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup lukewarm water (about 250 ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Toppings:
- 300 g bacon
- 150-200 g dry salami
- 200-300 g cheese, preferably aged
- 300-400 g mushrooms
- 200 ml tomato sauce
- pitted olives, to taste
- 3 tomatoes
- 2 peppers
- 2 medium onions
- salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by gathering all the ingredients needed for the dough. In a large bowl, add the flour, dry yeast, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine them evenly.

2. Adding water: Gradually pour the lukewarm water into the flour mixture, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or by hand. It is important to add the water gradually to avoid lumps.

3. Kneading: Once the dough begins to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from your hands. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

4. Rising: Place the dough in a bowl greased with oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 30-60 minutes until it doubles in size. This process is essential for achieving a fluffy crust.

5. Preparing the toppings: While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings. Clean and wash the mushrooms, then slice them. The tomatoes and peppers can be diced or sliced, depending on your preference. Chop the onion finely or into rings, and the bacon and salami can be sliced thinly.

6. Sautéing the mushrooms: In a skillet, add a little oil and sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until their juices evaporate and they become golden. This step will enhance the mushroom flavor and add extra taste to the pizza.

7. Forming the pizza: After the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out with a rolling pin until you achieve a thin sheet the size of the baking tray. Place the dough in the greased and breadcrumb-dusted tray to prevent sticking.

8. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C. This high temperature will help create a crispy crust, in contrast to the fluffy interior of the pizza.

9. Preparing the pizza: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese on top. Then, add the slices of bacon, salami, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, olives, and onion, arranging the ingredients evenly.

10. Finalizing the pizza: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the toppings. It will melt and form a golden and delicious crust.

11. Baking: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the crust becomes golden and crispy. Make sure to check it occasionally to avoid burning.

12. Serving: Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into slices and serve warm, alongside ketchup or your favorite sauce. A fresh salad would perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and useful advice:
- Use type 00 flour for a finer and fluffier dough.
- Add dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, to the dough for extra flavor.
- Experiment with various toppings, such as Kalamata olives, hot peppers, or even pineapple, to customize the pizza to your taste.
- If you have time, let the dough rise longer in the fridge (between 24-48 hours), and the texture will be even better.
- This pizza pairs wonderfully with a cold beer or a refreshing white wine.

Nutritional benefits:
Pizza a la Vasile is a complete meal, rich in carbohydrates from the dough, proteins from meat and dairy, as well as vitamins from vegetables. Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants, and tomatoes provide vitamins A and C. However, it is wise to consume pizza in moderation, considering the fat content from bacon and cheese.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the dough will have a different texture and may require more water.
- How can I make the pizza easier to digest? Replace bacon with grilled chicken breast or vegetables for a healthier option.
- Can I prepare the dough in advance? Absolutely! The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

In conclusion, Pizza a la Vasile is a simple yet delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply for a weekend evening, it will surely impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!