Ukrainian-style Pizza Cubana

Ingredients

In this Ukrainian adaptation of Pizza Cubana, we incorporate traditional Ukrainian dough for the crust, which gives it a unique texture and flavor. Additionally, we use Ukrainian-style pickles, which have a slightly sweeter taste compared to the traditional Cuban pickles. These adaptations add a distinct Ukrainian touch to the dish while still maintaining the essence of the original Pizza Cubana. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza cubana, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (250ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (250ml) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (100g) diced smoked ham 1 cup (100g) diced smoked ham
• 1 cup (150g) roasted pork, shredded 1 cup (150g) roasted pork, shredded
• 1/2 cup (75g) Ukrainian-style pickles, sliced 1/2 cup (75g) Ukrainian-style pickles, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
4. 4.
   Punch down the dough and roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet.
5. 5.
   Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
6. 6.
   Top the pizza with the diced smoked ham, shredded roasted pork, and sliced Ukrainian-style pickles. Sprinkle dried oregano over the toppings.
7. 7.
   Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ukrainian-style pickles — If you can't find Ukrainian-style pickles, you can substitute them with regular dill pickles. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked mozzarella cheese instead of regular mozzarella.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add more depth to the pizza.
• If you prefer a thinner crust, roll the dough out into a larger circle or rectangle.

Serving advice

Serve the Ukrainian-style Pizza Cubana hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or as a delicious appetizer for gatherings.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving. The vibrant green basil leaves will add a pop of color to the dish.