why make this recipe
Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza is a delightful dish that brings together earthy flavors with a crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for mushroom lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a homemade pizza with a gourmet touch. Not only is it delicious, but it also allows you to experiment with different types of wild mushrooms, enhancing the overall taste and adding a unique twist to your pizza night.
how to make Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (For making the pizza dough.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (For the dough.)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (To activate the yeast.)
- ¾ cup Warm Water (For dissolving the yeast.)
- 1 packet Active Dry Yeast (For the dough.)
- 2 cups Assorted Wild Mushrooms (Such as shiitake, oyster, and cremini.)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For sautéing the mushrooms.)
- 3-4 cloves Garlic (Mince finely for flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves (For seasoning the mushrooms.)
- 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella and Fontina Cheese (For topping the pizza.)
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt (To taste.)
- to taste Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (To taste.)
- 1 handful Fresh Arugula (For serving.)
Directions
- Begin by preparing the pizza dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in ¾ cup of warm water, then add 1 packet of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for at least an hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the wild mushrooms. Clean and slice approximately 2 cups of assorted wild mushrooms.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms and a pinch of salt. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they start to brown.
- Add 3-4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves to the mushrooms. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and caramelized. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat. Punch down the dough to release air and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into your desired shape, ensuring it is about 12 inches in diameter.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer to the oven. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil.
- Evenly distribute the sautéed wild mushrooms across the pizza dough, ensuring they cover the surface but do not overcrowd. Sprinkle about 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella and fontina cheese over the mushrooms.
- Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Toss a handful of fresh arugula with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Slice the pizza into wedges and top each slice with a small mound of arugula. Serve immediately while hot.
how to serve Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza
Serve this pizza hot, straight from the oven. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a light salad for a more filling meal. The fresh arugula adds a peppery bite and contrast to the rich mushrooms and cheese.
how to store Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza
If you have leftover pizza, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place the slices in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warm.
tips to make Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza
- Make sure to use a mix of wild mushrooms for varied flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the dough rising process; it makes a big difference in the crust’s texture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
variation
Feel free to customize this pizza by adding your favorite toppings, such as caramelized onions, spinach, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to rehydrate them in warm water before using, as they have a different texture and flavor.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute with any cheese you like, such as goat cheese, provolone, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Savory Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pizza
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful pizza combining earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with a crispy crust, perfect for mushroom lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- ¾ cup Warm Water
- 1 packet Active Dry Yeast
- 2 cups Assorted Wild Mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, cremini)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3-4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
- 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella and Fontina Cheese
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1 handful Fresh Arugula (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Dissolve sugar in warm water and add yeast. Let sit until frothy.
- Mix yeast mixture with flour until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for at least 1 hour.
- Clean and slice the mushrooms.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté mushrooms with a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and thyme, cook for 2-3 more minutes until tender.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and heat a pizza stone.
- Punch down the dough, roll out to 12 inches, and transfer to parchment paper.
- Distribute sautéed mushrooms, then sprinkle cheese over the top.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Let cool, toss arugula with olive oil and salt, and top pizza before serving.
Notes
Use a mix of wild mushrooms for varied flavor. Don’t rush the dough rising process for better texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian