Pizza Margherita

Ingredients

While the original Pizza Margherita is known for its simplicity and use of Italian ingredients, our Puerto Rican adaptation adds a tropical twist. We incorporate local Puerto Rican spices and ingredients to elevate the flavors and give it a unique island flair. Get ready to experience a burst of vibrant flavors in every bite. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza Margherita, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup (30g) sliced ripe plantains 1/4 cup (30g) sliced ripe plantains
• 1/4 cup (30g) diced red bell pepper 1/4 cup (30g) diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup (30g) sliced chorizo sausage 1/4 cup (30g) sliced chorizo sausage
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon (1g) dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g / 5g (total / saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 40g / 2g (total / sugars)
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin round shape.
7. 7.
   Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
8. 8.
   Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over each pizza crust.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over each pizza.
10. 10.
    Top the pizzas with fresh basil leaves, sliced plantains, diced red bell pepper, and sliced chorizo sausage.
11. 11.
    Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the toppings.
12. 12.
    Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let the pizzas cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin for a sweeter flavor. If you can't find plantains, you can substitute with sliced ripe bananas.
• Chorizo sausage — Look for cured chorizo sausage, which adds a smoky and spicy flavor to the pizza. If unavailable, you can use pepperoni as a substitute.

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 Puerto Rican spices like adobo seasoning or sofrito to add an extra layer of flavor to the pizza.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the toppings before baking.
• Serve the pizza with a side of tangy Puerto Rican hot sauce or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil for added flavor.
• Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican Pizza Margherita hot and fresh from the oven. Cut it into slices and serve as a main course or as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing tropical fruit salad or a side of crispy yuca fries for a complete Puerto Rican culinary experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of your Puerto Rican Pizza Margherita, garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. The vibrant colors of the toppings will make the pizza visually appealing. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a colorful plate to showcase the fusion of Italian and Puerto Rican flavors.