New York-Style Pizza

Ingredients

While the essence of a New York-style pizza remains intact, this adaptation incorporates Latvian ingredients and flavors. The crust is slightly thinner and crispier, resembling a traditional Latvian flatbread. The tomato sauce is infused with local herbs and spices, adding a unique twist. Additionally, Latvian cheese varieties such as Jāņu siers and Mārtiņa siers are used alongside mozzarella for a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for New York-Style Pizza, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) warm water 2 cups (470ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 5 cups (625g) all-purpose flour 5 cups (625g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried basil 1 teaspoon (5g) dried basil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (100g) grated Jāņu siers (Latvian cheese) 1 cup (100g) grated Jāņu siers (Latvian cheese)
• 1 cup (100g) grated Mārtiņa siers (Latvian cheese) 1 cup (100g) grated Mārtiņa siers (Latvian cheese)
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives) Toppings of your choice (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (3g sugars)
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast over the mixture. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 12 inches in diameter.
7. 7.
   Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal.
8. 8.
   In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and paprika. Spread the sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Jāņu siers, and grated Mārtiņa siers over the sauce.
10. 10.
    Add your desired toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and olives.
11. 11.
    Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Jāņu siers and Mārtiņa siers — These Latvian cheeses have a unique texture and flavor. Grate them just before using to ensure they melt evenly on the pizza.
• Tomato sauce — Opt for a thick and flavorful tomato sauce to enhance the taste of the pizza. You can also make your own by simmering fresh tomatoes with herbs and spices.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet or pizza stone before placing the rolled-out dough on it.
• Experiment with different Latvian toppings such as smoked fish, pickled vegetables, or Latvian sausages to add a local twist to your pizza.
• If you prefer a spicier pizza, sprinkle some Latvian chili flakes or add a few slices of Latvian hot peppers.

Serving advice

Serve the Riga-Style Pizza hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or share it as an appetizer during gatherings. Pair it with a fresh green salad or Latvian-style coleslaw for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill or parsley over the pizza before serving. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness to the dish.