Pizza with country ham and cheese crust

Pizza with Country Ham and Cheese Crust - A Delicious Treat for the Whole Family

Here’s a recipe that will turn a simple family evening into a true feast! This pizza with country ham and cheese crust is perfect not only for adults but also for kids, and the promise of a fluffy dough and savory toppings will make every slice a joy. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients needed:

For the dough:
- 12 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil for added flavor)
- 200 g flour

For the topping:
- 100 g sweet ketchup
- A pinch of dried marjoram
- A pinch of dried oregano
- 1 fresh basil leaf
- 1 tablespoon water
- 200 g Delaco cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 200 g country ham (sliced as thin as possible for a finer texture)
- 100 g champignon mushrooms (washed and sliced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
- 4 black olives (sliced, pitted)
- 50 g canned corn kernels

Chef’s tip: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the egg and milk, to help activate the yeast and allow the dough to rise.

Preparing the dough:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, rub the fresh yeast with the sugar until it becomes a paste. Add the lukewarm milk and mix well. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the egg, salt, and the yeast mixture. Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. When the dough starts to come together, add the oil and continue to knead with your hands until you obtain an elastic dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. If necessary, you can add a little more flour.

3. Letting it rise: Shape the dough into a ball, cover the bowl with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in size.

Preparing the topping:

1. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sweet ketchup with the dried marjoram, oregano, chopped basil leaf, and a tablespoon of water. This sauce will add a special flavor to your pizza.

2. Preparing the ingredients: Grate the cheese using a coarse grater and prepare all the other ingredients (ham, mushrooms, bell pepper, olives, and corn) so they are ready to use when the dough has risen.

Assembling the pizza:

1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C, and if you have a baking stone, you can place it in the oven to achieve a crispier crust.

2. Shaping the dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a baking sheet greased with a little oil. Shape it into a circle with a diameter of about 30 cm.

3. Adding the sauce: Spread the prepared ketchup sauce over the dough, leaving a margin of about 2 cm.

4. Adding the cheese: Distribute 150 g of cheese around the edge of the dough circle. This step is essential for having a cheese-filled crust, a true delicacy!

5. Adding the toppings: Add the sliced country ham, sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, olives, and corn kernels. Then, add the remaining ketchup and the rest of the cheese on top.

6. Baking the pizza: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted perfectly.

Serving and suggestions:

Once the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. This pizza can be accompanied by a glass of fresh lemonade or a cold beer for a perfect culinary experience.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This pizza contains approximately 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. The country ham provides protein and healthy fats, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. Additionally, the cheese provides important calcium for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 4 g of dry yeast. Mix it with the flour before adding the other ingredients.

2. How can I make the dough healthier?
You can replace some of the white flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of oil or use a healthier oil, such as extra virgin olive oil.

3. What other toppings can I use?
Pizza is a versatile dish, so feel free to experiment! You can add vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, or even pineapple for a sweet option. You can also use different types of meat, such as chicken or salami.

4. How can I store pizza for the next day?
Pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a skillet to regain its crispiness.

I hope you enjoyed this captivating recipe for pizza with country ham and cheese crust! Cooking is an art, and this pizza is a perfect example of how we can transform simple ingredients into something special. Enjoy your meal!