- **Meat**: Optional Italian sausage, ground beef, or sliced prosciutto (SEO: meat toppings, sausages, Italian meats)
- **Herbs and Spices**: Oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (SEO: pizza seasonings, herbs for pizza, spices for topping)
- **Olive Oil**: For drizzling or cooking the vegetables (SEO: olive oil, drizzle, cooking)
- **Salt and Pepper**: To taste (SEO: seasoning, salt, pepper)
Steps
## How to Make Chef John’s Pizza Rustica: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chef John's Pizza Rustica is a delightful Italian treat that combines traditional pizza ingredients with a flaky pastry crust. Follow this detailed recipe to create a delicious homemade version of this classic dish, perfect for your next family gathering or dinner party.
### Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (about 105°F/40°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1. In a small bowl, mix together warm water and sugar.
2. Add active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
3. Stir in the butter until it's mostly incorporated into the dough.
4. Gradually add eggs, mixing well after each addition.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
#### Step 3: Rest the Dough
1. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for at least 2 hours.
### Step 4: Prepare the Pizza Rustica
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a thin circle about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Transfer one rolled-out circle to the prepared baking sheet and spread pizza sauce evenly over it, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Add your chosen toppings if using.
#### Step 5: Baking
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
### Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to avoid issues with the dough.
- Letting the pizza rustica rest after baking can help improve its texture and taste.
- Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delicious Chef John's Pizza Rustica that will impress both family and friends. Enjoy this fun and flavorful recipe!