Taiwanese-style Pizza Margherita

Ingredients

While the original Pizza Margherita is known for its simplicity and traditional Italian ingredients, this Taiwanese adaptation adds a touch of local Taiwanese flavors. We have replaced the traditional mozzarella cheese with a combination of Taiwanese white cheese and shredded Taiwanese basil. Additionally, we have incorporated Taiwanese chili sauce to give the pizza a hint of spiciness. 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) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (200g) Taiwanese white cheese, shredded 1 cup (200g) Taiwanese white cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, torn 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Taiwanese chili sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) Taiwanese chili sauce
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or 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 the 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 circle.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pizza dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
8. 8.
   Spread the Taiwanese chili sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the shredded Taiwanese white cheese over the sauce.
10. 10.
    Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese.
11. 11.
    Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the hot pizza.
14. 14.
    Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Taiwanese white cheese — Make sure to shred the cheese before using it on the pizza for even melting and distribution.
• Taiwanese chili sauce — Adjust the amount of chili sauce according to your spice preference. Add more or less to suit your taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the rolled-out dough on it.
• Experiment with different toppings such as Taiwanese sausage or pickled vegetables to add more Taiwanese flavors to the pizza.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, you can substitute the Taiwanese chili sauce with a milder chili sauce or tomato sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese-style Pizza Margherita hot and fresh. It pairs well with a side of Taiwanese-style pickled vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the pizza with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a drizzle of Taiwanese chili oil before serving.