Calzone Pizza
Calzone Pizza: A Backpack-Shaped Delicacy
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 2 servings
Calzone Pizza, that wonderful pizza full of surprises, has become a favorite for many due to its unique shape and delicious fillings. Originally conceived as a portable pizza variant, the calzone has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of comfort food. This recipe will guide you step by step in creating the perfect calzone, with a fluffy dough and savory fillings.
Ingredients for the dough:
- 100 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 200 g white flour
- 1/2 small cube of fresh yeast
Ingredients for the red sauce:
- 1 cup thick tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- A pinch of chili paste
Ingredients for the white sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon white flour
- 1 cup milk
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon fine cheese
- 1 tablespoon blue cheese
Ingredients for the filling:
- 4-5 Kalamata olives
- 150 g cheese
- 2-3 slices of ham (or sautéed ground meat, if preferred)
Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by adding the dough ingredients into the bread machine (or in a bowl if you don't have a machine). Place the warm water, olive oil, salt, sugar, white flour, and fresh yeast. Set the machine to the kneading program and let it run for about 10-15 minutes. If using a bowl, knead the dough manually until it becomes elastic and smooth.
Helpful tips: Use warm water, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
Step 2: Preparing the sauces
While the dough rises, prepare the red sauce. In a bowl, mix the tomato juice with olive oil, salt, sugar, dried oregano, and chili paste. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
For the white sauce, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan. Add the flour and quickly whisk to avoid lumps. Gradually add the warm milk, stirring constantly. When the sauce begins to thicken, add the cheeses and salt, allowing it to simmer gently.
Step 3: Assembling the calzone
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a round shape as evenly as possible. Even if you can't get a perfect circle, don't worry, calzones are delicious regardless of shape! Place the dough on the baking tray, letting the edges hang over. This step is essential, as you will fold the edges over the filling.
Step 4: Filling the calzone
Spread the red sauce on the dough, followed by the grated cheese, chopped olives, and pieces of ham or ground meat. Add the white sauce on top of the filling, then fold the edges of the dough to seal the calzone. Make sure there are no holes to avoid leaks.
Step 5: Baking the calzone
Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Bake the calzone for 12 minutes. After this period, remove it from the oven and brush it with 1-2 tablespoons of red sauce, then return it to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until it turns golden.
Step 6: Serving
Remove the calzone from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. It is best served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a cold beer.
Variations and personal tips
If you want to vary the filling, try grilled vegetables or feta cheese for a vegetarian option. You can also add fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional information
Calories: approximately 450 kcal per serving (varies depending on filling). This calzone pizza provides a good source of carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the cheese and meat, as well as healthy fats from the olive oil.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be different and the calzone will be denser.
2. How can I store unused dough?
You can keep the dough covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze it.
3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or goat cheese for a different taste.
Calzone Pizza is a versatile and flavorful recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Experiment with fillings and sauces, and remember that each calzone can be customized to your taste! Enjoy!
Ingredients: for the dough: 100 ml warm water 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon sugar 200 g white flour 1/2 small cube of fresh yeast for the red sauce: 1 cup thick tomato juice 1 tablespoon olive oil salt to taste 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon dried oregano a pinch of hot pepper paste for the white sauce: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon white flour 1 small cup milk a pinch of salt 1 tablespoon soft cheese 1 tablespoon blue cheese for the filling: 4-5 Kalamata olives 150 g cheese 2-3 slices of ham (of your choice)
