Pizza with ham and mushrooms

Ham and Mushroom Pizza - A Dream Recipe for a Perfect Evening

Who doesn't love a delicious pizza with a crispy crust and rich toppings? I remember the first time I tried to make pizza at home; my crust was far from perfect. But, with the help of a friend and an amazing recipe, I discovered the secret to a pizza crust that turns into a real delight. I invite you to share this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 2 medium pizzas

Ingredients

For the pizza dough:
- 1 and a half cups of flour (about 300 g)
- 10 g fresh yeast or a packet of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 100 ml lukewarm water
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of dried basil

For the topping:
- 200 g ham, cut into strips
- A few slices of prosciutto
- 200 g canned mushrooms, drained
- 200 g mozzarella, grated
- 100 ml tomato sauce
- Pepper, to taste
- A few cherry tomatoes, halved
- A few fresh basil leaves
- Ketchup and hot sauce, for serving

Ingredient Details

Wheat flour is the perfect base for a successful pizza crust. Make sure to use quality flour, ideally for pizza, which has a high gluten content. Yeast is the secret that will make the dough rise and become fluffy. Tomato sauce and mozzarella are essential to provide a savory and creamy taste.

Recipe History

Pizza has become popular worldwide, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Over time, each region has brought its variations, but the desire to share a delicious meal has remained constant. This simple ham and mushroom pizza recipe is a classic combination, perfect for a movie night or a gathering with friends.

Preparation Instructions

1. Activating the yeast
In a small bowl, combine fresh yeast (or dry yeast) with a teaspoon of sugar, a little lukewarm water (about 50 ml), and a teaspoon of flour. Stir gently and let it rise for 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is the sign that the yeast is active and ready to be used.

2. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour with salt and dried basil if you want an extra flavor. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and the rest of the lukewarm water. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix until the ingredients start to come together.

3. Kneading the dough
Here comes the fun part: knead the dough! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead with both hands for about 10 minutes. If you have a food processor, you can use it to save time and effort. The dough should become soft and elastic.

4. Rising the dough
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little olive oil. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until it doubles in size. This is a crucial step for a fluffy and airy crust.

5. Preparing the toppings
While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings. Cut the ham and prosciutto into small strips, drain the mushrooms, and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Grate the mozzarella and prepare the tomato sauce, adding a pinch of pepper for extra flavor.

6. Shaping the pizza
Once the dough has risen, take it out of the bowl and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin or your fingers until you get a thin sheet, about 0.5 cm thick. If you want a thicker pizza, leave the crust a bit thicker.

7. Adding the toppings
Place the crust on a baking tray and spread the tomato sauce evenly over the entire surface. Sprinkle with pepper and dried basil (if using) and add the ham, mushrooms, prosciutto, and mozzarella. Arrange the cherry tomatoes on top for an attractive look.

8. Baking the pizza
Preheat the oven to 220°C. Bake the pizza for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy, and the cheese melts and becomes slightly browned. It’s the perfect moment to enjoy the delicious aroma that fills the house!

9. Serving the pizza
After you take the pizza out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then cut it into slices. Serve it warm, alongside ketchup and hot sauce, and if you like, add a few fresh basil leaves for an even more attractive look.

Serving Suggestions

This ham and mushroom pizza pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a cold beer. If you want to add a more gourmet touch, try pairing it with a dry white wine or a fruit cocktail.

Possible Variations

- Vegetarian: Replace ham and prosciutto with fresh vegetables like peppers, zucchini, and olives.
- Spicy: Add slices of hot pepper or a spicy sauce on top for a more intense flavor.
- Extra cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, dry yeast is an excellent alternative. Use a packet and follow the same activation instructions.

2. How do I know if the dough is well-kneaded?
The dough should be soft, elastic, and not stick to your hands. You can do the "window" test: stretch a piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches without tearing, it's ready.

3. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.

4. How long can I keep the pizza?
The pizza can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispness.

Conclusion

This ham and mushroom pizza recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. The experience of making pizza at home is not just about the food, but also about creating beautiful memories with loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let your imagination soar! Enjoy your meal!