Spicy vegan pizza with fish
Spicy Lent Pizza with Fish - A Seafood Delight
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Who doesn't love a delicious pizza? This spicy lent pizza with fish is a perfect choice for days when fish consumption is allowed, especially during fasting periods. With a soft dough and a tasty topping, this pizza will not only be a feast for your taste buds but will also bring a splash of diversity to your menu.
A Brief History of Pizza
Pizza is an iconic dish that has evolved over time. From a simple flatbread with toppings, it has become a beloved dish worldwide. Throughout history, pizza has been adapted in various cultures, and today we have countless variations, including meatless options like lent pizza.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 150 grams of white flour (choose a high-quality flour for better dough)
- 10 grams of fresh yeast (or 5 grams of dry yeast)
- 100 ml of warm water (check the temperature, it should be comfortable to touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (this helps activate the yeast)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sunflower oil (you can also use olive oil for a stronger flavor)
For the filling:
- 1 can of herring in spicy sauce (or another preferred fish, such as tuna)
- 2 cherry tomatoes (or regular tomatoes, diced)
- 15-16 pitted or sliced olives (you can experiment with kalamata olives for better flavor)
- 100 grams of plant-based cheese (or mozzarella if you're not strictly fasting)
For the sauce:
- 1-2 tablespoons of canned spicy sauce (or a homemade tomato sauce, see the recipe above)
Step by Step
1. Preparing the dough:
In a bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in warm water. Add the sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms. This is a sign that the yeast is active.
2. Mixing the ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, pouring in the yeast mixture and oil. Mix well until it becomes a smooth dough.
3. Kneading:
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. If needed, add a little flour.
4. Fermentation:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place, away from drafts, for 30 minutes, or until the dough doubles in size.
5. Shaping the dough:
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it gently to release the air. Roll it out into a sheet about 5-6 mm thick and place it in a greased baking tray.
6. Preparing the sauce:
If you're using canned sauce, skip this step. Otherwise, mix the tomato juice with salt, sugar, pepper, oregano, dried basil, and crushed garlic.
7. Adding the toppings:
Spread the spicy sauce over the dough, then add 2/3 of the grated cheese. Evenly distribute the herring pieces, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, adding a few drops of spicy sauce here and there for extra flavor.
8. Baking the pizza:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
9. Serving:
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool slightly, then cut it into slices and serve hot. This pizza is delicious alongside a fresh salad or a glass of white wine.
Practical Tips
- Choose your ingredients carefully: Use fresh ingredients for better taste. The canned fish should be of good quality, and olives are better if they are pitted.
- Experiment with the sauce: If you want a spicier flavor, you can add chopped chili peppers or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Variations: Instead of herring, you can use tuna or sardines. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of spicy lent pizza with fish has about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It provides protein from the fish and healthy fats from olive or sunflower oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast, using 5 grams instead of 10 grams.
2. Can the pizza be frozen?
You can freeze the pizza before baking it. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
3. What other drinks pair well with pizza?
A pale lager or a dry white wine are excellent accompaniments to this pizza.
Final Notes
This spicy lent pizza with fish not only combines delicious flavors but also gives you the chance to experiment with new ingredients. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pizza will surely become a favorite. Don't forget to add your personal touch and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: For the dough: 150 grams of white flour, 10 grams of fresh yeast, 100 ml of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of sunflower oil. For the filling: 1 can of herring in spicy sauce, 2 cherry tomatoes, 15-16 olives without pits/sliced, 100 grams of vegetable cheese.
