Pizza with ham and mushrooms
Ham and Mushroom Pizza – A Delicious Recipe for a Perfect Evening at Home
Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide. Whether we enjoy it at a local pizzeria or make it at home, pizza brings us together and delights us with its varied combinations of ingredients. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in making a ham and mushroom pizza, a simple yet flavorful dish, ideal for a quick family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Necessary ingredients:
- 300 grams of flour
- 150 ml warm water
- 20 grams of fresh yeast
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (for kneading)
- 150 grams of mushrooms (canned or fresh, depending on preference)
- 200 grams of pressed ham, cut into strips
- 200 grams of grated cheese
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- Ketchup (to taste)
- Fresh or dried basil (for decoration)
Preparing the dough – Step by step:
1. Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a pinch of salt and a pinch of sugar. Add about 50 ml of warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy dough.
2. In a large bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the activated yeast mixture into this well. Gradually add the remaining warm water and the olive oil.
3. Begin mixing the ingredients with a spatula or your hands, gradually incorporating the flour with the liquids until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
4. When the dough becomes less sticky, knead it for 5-10 minutes on a floured work surface. The dough should become elastic and smooth.
5. Form a ball from the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. This process will help the dough double in volume.
Assembling the pizza – Let’s bring it to life!
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C, so it’s ready for the pizza.
2. Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and turn the dough out. Roll it out with a rolling pin until you achieve a round shape, about 30 cm in diameter. You can choose to make it thinner or thicker, depending on your preference.
3. Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Place the pizza dough in the tray.
4. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the surface of the dough. The ketchup adds a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for balancing the salty ingredients.
5. Evenly sprinkle the grated cheese, followed by the diced bell pepper. Then, add the mushrooms and strips of ham. Finally, add the remaining cheese for a delicious crust.
6. Sprinkle the basil on top for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Baking the pizza – The moment we’ve been waiting for!
1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pizza for 20 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice it and serve it warm, perhaps alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce to complete the meal.
Practical tips:
- You can add other favorite ingredients, such as olives, red onion, chili peppers, or even pineapple, to customize the pizza to your taste.
- If you don’t have fresh yeast, you can use dry yeast in the same amount, but keep in mind that the activation time may vary.
- Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye flour, to achieve a different texture for the dough.
Nutritional information:
A serving of pizza (1/4 of the pizza) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20 grams
- Fat: 15 grams (of which saturated fat: 6 grams)
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Ham and mushroom pizza is not only a tasty dish but also a healthier choice when made at home, as you can control the ingredients and portions. It’s an excellent option for a quick dinner, but it can also be a staple for parties, alongside a refreshing drink or a white wine.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package, as textures and proportions may vary.
- How can I store pizza to consume later?
Pizza stores well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave to restore its crispy texture.
- Is it possible to freeze pizza?
Yes, pizza can be frozen before or after baking. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Ham and mushroom pizza will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 300 g flour, 150 ml water, 20 g yeast, a pinch of salt, a splash of water, oil for kneading, + 150 g mushrooms (canned), 200 g pressed ham, 200 g cheese, 1/2 bell pepper, ketchup, basil.
