Pizza with Prague ham

Pizza with Prague Ham – A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Pizza is one of the most beloved and versatile culinary dishes worldwide. From the classic pizza base to various toppings that can range from fresh vegetables to cold cuts, each pizza has its own story. Pizza with Prague ham is a variant that combines the rich flavor of meat with the delicious aromas of cheese and mushrooms, offering a memorable gastronomic experience.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 150 ml lukewarm water
- A pinch of salt
- 15 g fresh yeast
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- Approximately 350 g flour

*For the filling:*
- 3 tablespoons pizza sauce (preferably homemade)
- 150 g mozzarella, cut into strips
- 250 g Prague ham, thinly sliced
- 10 g oregano
- 5 mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 eggs
- 100 g grated cheese

Instructions:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add lukewarm water. Make sure the water temperature is not too high to avoid killing the yeast. Dissolve a pinch of salt in the water, then add the fresh yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it starts to foam; this indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Combining the ingredients: Add the olive oil and gradually incorporate the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until you obtain a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If necessary, adjust the amount of flour to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, until its volume doubles. This is when the dough becomes airy and light.

4. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Grease a round baking tray (preferably 30 cm in diameter) with a splash of olive oil. This step will help achieve a crispy crust on the bottom of the pizza.

5. Shaping the bases: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you get a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Place the base in the prepared tray, making sure to create small edges to keep the filling inside.

6. Adding the sauce and ingredients: Pour the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Distribute the strips of mozzarella, sliced mushrooms, and Prague ham on top. These ingredients will blend perfectly during baking, creating an explosion of flavors.

7. Eggs and cheese: Beat the two eggs in a small bowl and pour them evenly over the filling. This step will add a creamy texture and bind the ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top for a delicious golden crust.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese starts to melt and form appetizing bubbles.

9. Serving: When the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, garnished with a few fresh basil or oregano leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving tip: This pizza pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as tomato juice with basil or fresh lemonade. If you want a touch of originality, you can add a few drops of hot sauce on top before serving.

Nutritional information: Pizza with Prague ham is a good source of protein due to the ham and eggs, while mozzarella provides essential calcium. The flour in the dough adds carbohydrates that offer energy, but it’s important to consume in moderation due to calorie content.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or gorgonzola, to add new flavors. Additionally, adding vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or caramelized onions will provide an even more complex taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with marinated tofu or other vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the proportions. Usually, one-third of the amount of fresh yeast is sufficient.
- How do I know when the pizza is ready? The pizza is ready when the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Can I prepare the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Make sure it is covered to prevent it from drying out.

Pizza with Prague ham is more than just a dish; it is a fun activity that you can do with family or friends, turning cooking into a social experience. So put on your apron and unleash your imagination in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: dough;150 ml warm water, a pinch of salt, 15 g fresh yeast, a tablespoon of olive oil, about 350 g flour filling;3 tablespoons pizza sauce, 150 g mozzarella, 250 g Prague ham, 10 g oregano, 5 mushrooms, 2 eggs, 100 g cheese