John Miller
Mushrooms are a popular pizza topping, and many recipes for mushroom pizza exist. Some recipes recommend sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the pizza, while others suggest using them raw. Sautéing the mushrooms can help to prevent them from drying out and improve the texture and flavor. However, using raw mushrooms can add a desirable crunch to the pizza. In addition to mushrooms, other popular vegetable toppings for pizza include onions, peppers, zucchini, eggplant, spinach, kale, and garlic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of mushroom | Baby bella (cremini), shiitake, oyster, button, portabella |
| Type of pizza | Vegetarian, with or without tomato sauce |
| Other toppings | Onions, bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, kale, garlic, jalapeños, olives, capers, artichoke, spinach, basil, arugula, parmesan, goat cheese, mozzarella |
| Cooking method | Sautéed, grilled, roasted |
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What You'll Learn
Sautéed vs. raw mushrooms
There are several schools of thought on whether to sauté or leave raw mushrooms before putting them on a veggie pizza. Some people believe that sautéing mushrooms before putting them on a pizza is the best way to go. Sautéing mushrooms can help to remove excess moisture, which can prevent the pizza from becoming soggy. Mushrooms tend to retain more moisture than other vegetables, so sautéing them can help to ensure that they cook fully and don't become rubbery or slimy. It can also enhance their flavour and texture, making them juicier and more seasoned.
On the other hand, some people argue that it is unnecessary to sauté mushrooms before putting them on a pizza. They claim that raw mushrooms will cook sufficiently in the oven while the pizza bakes. Additionally, they believe that sautéing mushrooms can make them too dry and shrivelled, especially if they are not properly seasoned or if the oven temperature is too high.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to sauté or leave raw mushrooms before putting them on a veggie pizza comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the taste and texture of sautéed mushrooms, while others prefer the convenience and freshness of raw mushrooms. One suggestion is to experiment with both methods and see which one you prefer. Additionally, the type of mushroom used, the thickness of the pizza crust, and the density of mushrooms on the pizza can all impact whether they are sautéed or left raw.
When sautéing mushrooms for pizza, it is recommended to heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and then add the mushrooms, herbs, and a small amount of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender. Then, reduce the heat to low and add lemon juice before removing from the heat. This method helps to ensure that the mushrooms are juicy and seasoned without becoming too dry.
Whether you choose to sauté or leave raw mushrooms for your veggie pizza, it is important to use fresh, high-quality mushrooms and to clean and slice them properly. Additionally, consider the other toppings and flavours you want to include to create a well-balanced and delicious pizza.
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Pizza sauce vs. no sauce
When it comes to pizza, there are two camps: those who prefer their pies saucy and those who like them dry. While a tomato-based sauce is the traditional choice, some opt for no sauce at all, or an alternative such as a white sauce or olive oil base.
The case for sauce: Pizza sauce adds a layer of flavour and moisture to a pizza. It can also contribute to a more balanced meal, especially when the sauce is made from nutrient-rich ingredients like tomatoes. For those who make their own pizza sauce, there is also the benefit of customisation; sauce recipes can be tailored to personal taste preferences and dietary needs. For instance, an oil-free pizza sauce can be made with just eight ingredients and prepared in five minutes.
The case against sauce: Some pizza purists believe that a sauce can detract from the flavour of the toppings, especially when the toppings themselves are already moist and flavourful. For example, a mushroom pizza with a white sauce might overpower the earthy notes of the mushrooms. Additionally, a sauceless pizza can be seen as a blank canvas for creative toppings, allowing the flavours of the cheese, herbs, and vegetables to shine through.
Ultimately, the decision to include sauce or not comes down to personal preference. Pizza is a versatile dish that can be customised in countless ways to suit individual tastes. Whether you're a sauce aficionado or a no-sauce advocate, the beauty of pizza is that you can make it your own.
As for the question of whether mushrooms belong on a veggie pizza, the answer is an unequivocal yes! Mushrooms are a popular choice for vegetarian pizzas, adding a savoury, earthy flavour and meaty texture to the pie. However, it is generally recommended to sauté mushrooms before putting them on a pizza to prevent them from drying out during baking.
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Types of mushrooms
While some people enjoy raw mushrooms on their pizza, others believe that sautéing them first improves their texture and flavour. Mushrooms have a high water content, and cooking them before adding them to a pizza can prevent them from drying out and becoming shrivelled.
There are several types of mushrooms that are commonly used on pizzas:
- Button mushrooms are the most common type of mushroom and are often used on pizzas. They have a mild flavour that intensifies as they cook, making them perfect for pizza.
- Portabella mushrooms are larger and thicker than most mushrooms, with a chewy, meaty texture and a smoky, earthy flavour. They can also be sliced and grilled as a succulent pizza base alternative.
- Cremini mushrooms are mid-sized and have a similar flavour to portabellas, but their smaller size lends themselves more to chopping and sautéing before scattering in smaller portions across a pizza.
- Shiitake mushrooms have a distinctive flavour that can sometimes be an acquired taste. Their lanky shape is super easy to shred by hand, making them convenient to sprinkle over a pizza base.
- Morel mushrooms are another option, although they only grow in spring.
Some chain pizza places use canned button mushrooms, but these are generally considered inferior to fresh mushrooms.
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Other toppings
While mushrooms are a popular choice for veggie pizzas, there are plenty of other toppings to choose from. Here are some ideas for vegetarian pizza toppings:
Cheese
Cheese is a must-have for any pizza, and there are many vegetarian-friendly options to choose from. Mozzarella is a classic choice, and you can use either fresh mozzarella in water or shredded mozzarella. Other options include goat cheese, feta, ricotta, blue cheese, and Parmesan.
Vegetables
When it comes to vegetables, the options are endless. Onions are a popular choice, especially caramelized onions. You can also add bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, asparagus, artichokes, and olives. If you're looking for something more exotic, try lacinato kale, sun-dried tomatoes, or jalapeños. Just be careful not to overload your pizza with too many veggies, as this can cause it to fall apart.
Herbs and Spices
Fresh herbs can really enhance the flavor of your veggie pizza. Basil is a popular choice, but you can also try oregano, thyme, chives, rosemary, or arugula. If you want to add a spicy kick to your pizza, try drizzling on some hot honey.
Sauces
The sauce you choose will depend on your personal preference. Traditional tomato sauce is always a good option, but you can also try a white sauce or pesto. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing equal parts tomato sauce and pesto for a unique flavor combination.
Meat Alternatives
If you're looking for a heartier vegetarian pizza, you can try adding meat alternatives such as pepperoni, Calabrese, chorizo salami, or veggie pepperoni. These can add a savory flavor and a chewy texture to your pizza.
Remember, the key to a good veggie pizza is to be creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings. Don't be afraid to try something new, and always use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
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Pizza dough
Making pizza dough from scratch is a rewarding experience, and you'll need to allow for preparation and proving time. You can also make it ahead of time and freeze it for later use. Here is a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients
- 500ml of water
- 800-900g of all-purpose or bread flour (or a mix of both)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2-3 teaspoons of salt
- 1-2 teaspoons of sugar
- 1 pack of dried yeast
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Method
- Combine the water, yeast, sugar and let sit for 10 minutes until the yeast is floating at the top and looks foamy.
- Add in the flour, olive oil and stir thoroughly. You don't want any dry bits of flour remaining.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Add in the salt and knead the dough for 10 minutes, or until it is sticking to the bottom of the bowl.
- Flour your work surface and form the dough into a ball.
- Divide the dough into 3-4 smaller pieces for large pizzas, or in half for smaller pizzas.
- Gently flatten each piece into a disc, using your hands or a rolling pin.
- Stretch and flatten the disc into a circle, about 1/2 inch thick.
- If the dough keeps shrinking, cover it and let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then try again.
- Place each dough circle onto a prepared baking sheet or pizza pan.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (215°C) or 475°F (246°C) if you prefer a crispier base.
- Brush the crust with olive oil and add your desired toppings.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Freezing Instructions
This recipe yields enough dough for several pizzas, so you can freeze the extra dough for later use. Simply place the dough balls into zipped-top bags, removing all air, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer the dough to the refrigerator for about 8 hours or overnight, then let it rest for 1 hour at room temperature before shaping and baking.
There you have it! A delicious, homemade pizza dough that you can use as a base for your veggie pizza with mushrooms and other toppings of your choice. Enjoy the process and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and baking techniques.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to cook mushrooms before putting them on a pizza. Sautéing the mushrooms in a pan with olive oil, herbs, and lemon juice will ensure they are juicy and seasoned. You can also brown the mushrooms in a skillet with butter or oil.
You can add caramelized onions, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, eggplant, kale, jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like basil. If you're not a fan of heat, you can skip the jalapeños.
You can use mozzarella, parmesan, goat cheese, feta, ricotta, or blue cheese.
