Sichuan-style Spicy Pizza Margherita

Ingredients

While the original Pizza Margherita is known for its simplicity and delicate flavors, our Sichuan-style adaptation adds a spicy and numbing element to the dish. We incorporate Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and other traditional Sichuan spices to create a pizza that is both familiar and excitingly different. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza Margherita, so you can check it out.

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (75g) sliced fresh tomatoes 1/2 cup (75g) sliced fresh tomatoes
• 1/4 cup (40g) sliced red onions 1/4 cup (40g) sliced red onions
• 2 tablespoons Sichuan chili oil 2 tablespoons Sichuan chili oil
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (4g sugars)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. 2.
   Roll out the pizza dough into a round shape and place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. 3.
   Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. 5.
   Arrange the sliced tomatoes and red onions on top of the cheese.
6. 6.
   Drizzle the Sichuan chili oil over the pizza.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the crushed Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili flakes evenly.
8. 8.
   Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sichuan chili oil — Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. Increase or decrease the quantity to suit your preference.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan before crushing them to enhance their aroma and flavor.
• Tomato sauce — Use a good quality tomato sauce or make your own by simmering tomatoes with garlic, onions, and herbs until thickened.
• Pizza dough — If using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions for best results. If making homemade dough, ensure it is properly proofed and rolled out evenly.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture, or use shredded mozzarella for convenience.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick, add some Sichuan chili flakes to the pizza dough before baking.
• Experiment with different toppings such as Sichuan-style shredded chicken or tofu for a protein-packed variation.
• Serve the pizza with a side of Sichuan-style pickled vegetables to balance the spiciness.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Sichuan chili oil and peppercorns.
• Customize the pizza by adding other Sichuan spices like garlic, ginger, or fermented black beans.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan-style Spicy Pizza Margherita hot and fresh 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 cooling cucumber salad or a refreshing Sichuan-style cold noodle dish to balance the heat.

Presentation advice

Present the Sichuan-style Spicy Pizza Margherita on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to showcase its rustic charm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. The vibrant red of the chili flakes and the melted cheese will create an enticing visual appeal.