South Asian Spiced Pizzolo

Ingredients

In this South Asian adaptation of the Sicilian Pizzolo, we incorporate tandoori spices and flavors to infuse the dish with a distinct South Asian twist. The traditional tomato sauce is enhanced with aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The chicken is marinated in a yogurt-based tandoori marinade before being cooked to perfection. The toppings include onions and bell peppers, adding a burst of freshness and crunch to the dish. The final touch of cilantro and lime adds a zesty and refreshing element, typical of South Asian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Pizzolo, 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 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup (150g) boneless chicken, diced 1 cup (150g) boneless chicken, diced
• 1/4 cup (60g) plain yogurt 1/4 cup (60g) plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon tandoori masala 1 tablespoon tandoori masala
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (75g) onions, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (75g) onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (75g) bell peppers, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (75g) bell peppers, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour, allowing it to rise.
2. 2.
   In the meantime, prepare the tandoori marinade by combining yogurt, tandoori masala, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt in a bowl. Add the diced chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each portion into a round shape, approximately 8 inches in diameter.
4. 4.
   Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet and spread tomato sauce evenly over the surface. Top with marinated chicken, sliced onions, and bell peppers.
5. 5.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure the chicken is diced into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Tandoori masala — If you can't find tandoori masala, you can make your own by combining equal parts of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies or red chili flakes to the marinade.
• If you prefer a thinner crust, roll the dough into a larger size.
• Experiment with different toppings such as paneer, mushrooms, or spinach to customize the flavors.
• Serve the Tandoori Pizzolo with a side of mint chutney or raita for an extra burst of freshness.
• Leftover Tandoori Pizzolo can be reheated in a toaster oven for a quick and delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Tandoori Pizzolo hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and serve as a main course or as an appetizer for gatherings. Accompany it with lime wedges for a tangy kick.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top of the Tandoori Pizzolo before serving. You can also drizzle a swirl of yogurt or mint chutney over the pizza for an attractive touch.