Colorado-Style Pizza with a Belgian Twist

Ingredients

In this Belgian adaptation of Colorado-style pizza, we incorporate traditional Belgian ingredients and flavors. The original American version typically features a thicker crust and uses ingredients like pepperoni and mozzarella cheese. However, in this Belgian twist, we opt for a thin and crispy crust, Belgian ham, mushrooms, and a blend of Belgian cheeses. The sauce is also infused with Belgian beer, adding a unique depth of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Colorado-Style Pizza, so you can check it out.

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Belgian beer 1/2 cup (120ml) Belgian beer
• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices Belgian ham, thinly sliced 4 slices Belgian ham, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (100g) mushrooms, sliced 1 cup (100g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup (100g) shredded Belgian cheese blend (such as Gouda, Mimolette, and Brugge Dentelle) 1 cup (100g) shredded Belgian cheese blend (such as Gouda, Mimolette, and Brugge Dentelle)
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
• Belgian honey, for drizzling Belgian honey, for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. 2.
   In a small saucepan, combine the Belgian beer, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
4. 4.
   Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
5. 5.
   Spread the beer-infused tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Arrange the Belgian ham slices and sliced mushrooms on top of the sauce.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the shredded Belgian cheese blend over the toppings.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
10. 10.
    Drizzle the pizza with Belgian honey for a touch of sweetness.
11. 11.
    Slice and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Belgian ham — Opt for a high-quality, thinly sliced Belgian ham for the best flavor and texture.
• Belgian beer — Choose a Belgian beer that complements the flavors of the pizza, such as a Belgian ale or a fruity Belgian lambic.
• Belgian cheese blend — Look for a blend of Belgian cheeses like Gouda, Mimolette, and Brugge Dentelle for a unique and authentic taste.
• Fresh thyme — Use fresh thyme leaves for garnish to add a fragrant and herbaceous touch to the pizza.
• Belgian honey — Select a high-quality Belgian honey to drizzle over the pizza for a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the rolled-out dough on it.
• Experiment with different Belgian cheeses to find your favorite combination of flavors.
• If you prefer a stronger beer flavor, you can increase the amount of Belgian beer in the sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
• Serve the pizza with a side of Belgian fries for a complete Belgian culinary experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Colorado-Style Pizza with a Belgian Twist hot and fresh from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or as part of a pizza party. Pair it with a crisp Belgian beer or a refreshing Belgian fruit beer for a perfect flavor combination.

Presentation advice

Present the Colorado-Style Pizza with a Belgian Twist on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to showcase its rustic charm. Garnish it with fresh thyme leaves and drizzle Belgian honey over the top for an elegant touch. Serve it alongside a side of Belgian fries for a visually appealing and delicious meal.