Pizza with pressed ham and salami

Pizza with Pressed Ham and Salami - A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 3 pizzas (3 pizza bases)

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, with a history that blends diverse and creative culinary traditions. It is a dish that can be customized in countless ways, allowing everyone to create their perfect version. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to prepare a delicious pizza with pressed ham and salami, perfect for a family dinner or a party with friends.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g white flour (preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 10 g dry yeast
- 1 egg
- 5 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 200-250 ml warm water (approximately, depending on the type of flour)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil

For the topping:
- 150 g salami (preferably from Banat)
- 150 g pressed chicken ham
- 100 g green olives
- 100 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 200 g mozzarella (grated or sliced)

For the sauce:
- 2 cups tomato juice (or pureed fresh tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 garlic cloves (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground chili (optional, for a spicy taste)

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl to aerate the ingredient. Add the dry yeast, egg, buttermilk, and salt. Gently mix the ingredients with a spatula or wooden spoon.

2. Gradually adding water:
Begin to gradually add warm water while continuously mixing. The amount of water may vary depending on the type of flour, so adjust as needed. When the dough starts to come together, add the olive oil.

3. Kneading the dough:
Knead the dough on a well-floured work surface for about 10-15 minutes. The dough should become elastic and non-sticky. You can check its consistency using the "windowpane" method: stretch a piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches without tearing, it is ready.

4. Proofing the dough:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with plastic wrap, and then with a clean towel. Let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.

2. Preparing the sauce:
In a small pot, combine the tomato juice, ketchup, sugar, salt, basil, olive oil, and sliced garlic cloves. Place over low heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. After this time, add the ground chili (if desired) and let it cook for another 5 minutes to thicken.

3. Shaping the pizza bases:
Once the dough has risen, remove it onto a floured work surface and divide it into 3 equal balls. Using a rolling pin, roll each ball of dough into round shapes, about 1 cm thick.

4. Assembling the pizza:
Place the pizza bases on trays lined with parchment paper. Spread each base with the prepared sauce, reserving a few tablespoons for the final topping. Sprinkle grated mozzarella on each base, followed by your favorite toppings: salami, ham, olives, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Finish with a little mozzarella on top for an appetizing look.

5. Baking the pizza:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (or 200°C with fan). Place the tray in the oven and bake the pizza for 20 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving

Pizza is served hot, cut into generous slices. You can accompany it with a fresh salad or even a glass of red wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of meat and cheese. If you want an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh basil over each slice before serving.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Dough: For a crispier pizza crust, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough.
- Toppings: Be creative with toppings! You can add black olives, red bell pepper, artichokes, or even pineapple for a sweet-spicy version.
- Sauce: The pizza sauce can also be made from fresh pureed tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Calories: A serving of pizza with ham and salami has about 350-400 calories, depending on the toppings and thickness of the bases.
- Nutritional benefits: Ingredients like mozzarella cheese provide calcium and protein, while vegetables add vitamins and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What type of flour should I use for the dough? Type 00 flour is ideal for pizza, but you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, use about 30 g of fresh yeast instead of dry yeast.
- What drinks pair best with pizza? Red wine or a pale lager are excellent choices, but you can also opt for natural juices or lemonade.

Making a delicious pizza at home is a satisfying experience. This simple yet tasty recipe will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones and turn any meal into a feast. So, invite your family or friends for a pizza night and discover the joy of cooking together!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 500 g white flour, 10 g dry yeast, 1 egg, 5 tablespoons buttermilk, 1 teaspoon salt, 200-250 ml warm water, 3 tablespoons olive oil. For the topping: Banat salami, pressed chicken ham, green olives, mushrooms, green pepper, mozzarella. For the sauce: 2 cups tomato juice, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon basil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground chili.

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