Crafting Perfect Pizzettes

Discover the art of creating irresistibly cute, baby-sized pizzas known as pizzettes with this step-by-step guide. These miniature delights, packed with flavor, are not only visually appealing but also addictive. The magic lies in the no-knead, wet dough that results in a crispy, light, and open-textured crust without the need for a mixer or rolling pin. While handling wet dough requires a delicate touch, the end result—a pizzeria-style pizza with bubbly air pockets and a chewy crust—is undoubtedly worth the effort.

The Secret to Perfect Dough

Ingredients:

  • 250 g strong white bread flour
  • 1 tsp. yeast
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 225 ml warm water

Dough Preparation:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mixing with a spoon until fully incorporated.
  2. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and leave the dough to prove in a warm place for two hours.

A Flavorful Tomato Sauce

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/2 tbsp. oil
  • 200 ml passata
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. sugar

Preparing the Sauce:

  1. Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a small pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the remaining sauce ingredients and cook for 2 minutes until slightly reduced. Set aside.

Shaping and Topping the Pizzettes

Dough Shaping:

  1. Preheat the oven to 220ºC (200ºC Fan).
  2. Release the risen dough onto a well-floured surface, gently shaping it into a circle without knocking out the air.
  3. Divide the dough into 8 segments using a dough cutter or sharp knife.
  4. Tuck the edges underneath each segment to create a ball and cover for another 30 minutes.

Creating Individually Unique Pizzettes:

  1. Wet a sheet of greaseproof paper under a running tap, squeeze out excess water, and lay it on your counter.
  2. Oil your hands and fingertips, then place a ball of dough on the greaseproof paper.
  3. Press your oiled fingers into the center to create an indentation for the sauce.
  4. Gently spread the dough to about 9-10cm in radius, retaining as many air bubbles as possible.
  5. Repeat the process for the remaining balls of dough.

Topping the Pizzettes:

  1. Spread a teaspoon of sauce on the center of each pizzette.
  2. Top with fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  3. Drizzle garlic-infused olive oil over the toppings.

Baking Perfection

  1. Preheat a baking tray on the middle shelf.
  2. Turn the tray upside down, transfer the greaseproof paper and pizzettes onto it, and place in the center of the oven.
  3. Bake for 15-17 minutes until golden and risen.
  4. Remove from the oven, scatter fresh basil over the top, and serve immediately.

Variations: From Classic to Creative

Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste. Transform these adorable pizzettes into garlic bread wonders by blending fresh garlic with olive oil and dried Italian herbs. Add a cheeky grating of Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Indulge in the joy of creating these delightful pizzettes, combining the simplicity of the no-knead dough with the rich flavors of a homemade tomato sauce and a medley of toppings. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, these miniature pizzas are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the crispy, chewy crust and savor the burst of flavors with every bite!

 

Delectable Homemade Burrata with Basil Oil and Zesty Cherries

Introduction: Indulging in the creamy delight of burrata is a culinary experience like no other. However, finding the perfect stuffed balls in supermarkets can be a challenge. Fear not, as this recipe presents a cheat’s version of burrata that’s simple yet divine. By tearing mozzarella and blending it with double cream, you can craft your own creamy concoction. The dish is elevated with a quick homemade basil oil and the zing of fresh cherries, making it an ideal starter or a delightful quick snack.


Ingredients:

  • 250 g mozzarella
  • 100 ml double cream
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 10 g basil leaves
  • 200 ml olive oil
  • 100 g cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Making the Cheat’s Burrata:

Step 1: Preparing the Mozzarella Mix In a medium bowl, tear the mozzarella into small pieces and generously pour over the double cream. Add 1/4 tsp of salt and stir the ingredients until they meld into a luscious mixture. Cover the bowl and let it refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Step 2: Crafting the Basil Oil For the basil oil, immerse the basil leaves in a bowl and cover them with freshly boiled water. Allow them to steep for 10 seconds, then swiftly transfer them into ice-cold water for 2 minutes. Remove and squeeze out any excess liquid. In a food blender, combine the basil leaves with olive oil, blending for 2-3 minutes until the basil is finely processed, and the oil takes on a vibrant green hue. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve, setting the exquisite basil oil aside for later use.

Step 3: Preparing the Zesty Cherries In a small bowl, mix the halved cherries with the remaining salt, black pepper, and a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Stir the ingredients until they harmonize, creating a zesty complement to the creamy burrata.


Serving Perfection:

Step 4: Assembling the Dish When you’re ready to serve, spoon generous portions of the homemade burrata onto your preferred dish. Top each mound of creamy delight with the zesty cherry mixture, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Drizzling the Basil Oil Finish the presentation by drizzling the vibrant basil oil over the burrata and cherries. The aromatic infusion of basil elevates the dish, providing a sensory experience that is both visually appealing and palate-pleasing.


Conclusion: In the realm of culinary indulgence, creating a dish that is both accessible and decadent is a triumph. This cheat’s burrata, adorned with homemade basil oil and zesty cherries, stands as a testament to the art of simplicity in gastronomy. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful starter or quick snack, savoring the rich creaminess of mozzarella blended with double cream, the aromatic touch of basil oil, and the zing of fresh cherries. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that resonate with every culinary enthusiast.