Muffins - pizza

Pizza Muffins - A Unique Delicacy for Any Occasion

Who said pizza always has to be flat? Today, I present to you an exciting recipe that transforms pizza into a unique experience: Pizza Muffins. These delicious muffins, filled with rich flavors, are perfect as an appetizer or a snack. Ideal for parties or a quick family dinner, these muffins will delight your taste buds and add a touch of creativity to your plate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

The ingredients are simple, but each contributes to an exceptional final result. Here’s what you need:

For the dough:
- 1 cup warm water (about 200 ml)
- A pinch of salt (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- 100 g butter (can also use unsalted butter for a more intense flavor)
- 10 g fresh yeast (or 3 g dry yeast)
- Flour, as needed (about 300-400 g, but add gradually)

For the filling:
- 250 g pressed chicken breast, diced
- 200 g grated cheese (you can also use mozzarella for a more elastic texture)
- 1 can of mushrooms (about 400 g, drained)
- Ketchup (for a uniform taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of corn (optional, for a sweet flavor)

Let's get started!

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water with the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy. Add the melted butter and salt, mixing gently. Start adding flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands, until you obtain a soft and slightly sticky dough. If the dough is too wet, add a little flour at a time.

2. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. It will become fluffier and gain volume.

3. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, you can prepare the filling. Drain the mushrooms and cut the chicken breast into small cubes. In a bowl, combine the chicken, mushrooms, bell pepper, and corn. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

4. Shaping the muffins: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1 cm thick. Using a knife or a glass, cut out square or round shapes (depending on the muffin tin shape). Place the cut shapes in a greased or lined muffin tin.

5. Assembling the muffins: Spread each dough shape with a thin layer of ketchup. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top. You can add a drizzle of ketchup on top as well, if you want an extra flavor boost.

6. Baking: Place the muffin tin in the oven and let the muffins bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and fluffy.

7. Serving: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool slightly before taking them out of the tin. These pizza muffins are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them with a fresh green salad or a yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.

Helpful tips:
- You can experiment with other ingredients, adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a bit of chili for an extra kick.
- If you have leftover dough, you can use it to make small rolls or fill it with cheese and herbs for a quick snack.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken breast with tofu or various vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.

Nutritional benefits:
These pizza muffins are a good source of protein due to the chicken breast and calcium from the cheese. Adding vegetables makes them a healthy option, full of vitamins. Whole wheat flour can be used for a higher fiber intake.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast? Yes, that is perfectly acceptable. Use about 3 g of dry yeast, but remember to activate it in warm water.
2. Can I make the dough a day in advance? Sure, you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Let it warm to room temperature before using.
3. How can I store the muffins? They keep well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crunchy texture.

These pizza muffins are a versatile choice that can bring a fresh breath to your meals. Try them and let yourself be carried away by their flavor! I look forward to seeing you at the next recipe with equally unique ideas. Enjoy your meal!