Surprise pizza

Surprise pizza is one of those recipes that combines flavors, texture, and the joy of cooking in a surprising and delicious way. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, giving everyone the chance to enjoy a delicious pizza made by you. Join me in discovering together how to prepare a perfect dough and a filling full of flavor!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 egg
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 300 ml yogurt (preferably natural)

For the filling:
- 200 g salami (or other preferred cold cuts)
- 100 g olives (black or green, depending on preferences)
- 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 egg yolk for brushing

A brief history

Pizza, an iconic dish that has gained popularity worldwide, has deep roots in the culinary traditions of several cultures. Over the years, pizza has evolved, with each region adding a personal touch regarding ingredients and preparation methods. Surprise pizza, as we call it, brings a splash of innovation and excitement to cooking, transforming the classic recipe into a unique culinary experience.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the dough:
We start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast cube in 100 ml of warm yogurt (not hot, so as not to destroy the yeast) and add a tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt and the other two tablespoons of sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

3. Combining the ingredients:
Make a well in the center of the flour and add the egg, the activated yeast mixture, and the remaining yogurt. Using a spatula or your hands, begin to incorporate the flour into the liquids, forming a dough.

4. Kneading the dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. It is essential to give it love and attention in this process, as the dough will become fluffier and tastier.

5. Letting the dough rise:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

6. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, we prepare the filling. Cut the salami into small cubes, slice the olives or leave them whole, and cut the bell pepper into strips or cubes, according to preference. A combination of fresh and tasty ingredients will make our pizza truly special.

7. Assembling the pizza:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll each piece of dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure to form an even layer. Distribute the filling evenly over each dough, leaving a little space at the edges.

8. Baking the pizza:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Brush the edges of the pizza with egg yolk to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the pizza in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.

9. Serving:
Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve with tomato sauce or yogurt sauce, according to preferences. A fresh salad on the side will perfectly complete the meal!

Practical tips

- Flour: Use type 00 or bread flour, which will provide a more elastic and fluffier dough.
- Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh for a well-risen pizza. If using dry yeast, use about 7 g.
- Yogurt: You can experiment with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Customization: Add your favorite ingredients to the filling, such as mozzarella cheese or fresh vegetables. You can even try a vegetarian version of surprise pizza!

Nutritional benefits

This surprise pizza offers a combination of carbohydrates from the flour, proteins from the egg and yogurt, as well as healthy fats from the salami and olives. Additionally, the bell pepper adds essential vitamins, such as vitamin C. It is a balanced meal that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the dough will have a denser texture. You can combine white flour with whole wheat for a more balanced result.

2. How can I make the pizza spicier?
Add a few slices of hot pepper or spices like chili flakes to the filling for a kick of heat.

3. What drinks pair well with pizza?
A cold beer or a light red wine is the perfect choice. Additionally, freshly squeezed tomato juice or lemonade can be excellent options.

Surprise pizza is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together at the table. Try to personalize it and add your unique touch! Cooking is an art, and each pizza can tell a different story. So roll up your sleeves and let's enjoy this culinary journey together!