lunch lady pizza, a classic comfort food, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its simple yet satisfying flavor profile has captivated taste buds for generations. Today, we’ll embark on a culinary journey to elevate this beloved dish, infusing it with global flavors and techniques.
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
1 package (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
Easy Homemade School Cafeteria Pizza – Margin Making Mom®
Image Source: marginmakingmom.com
For the Sauce:
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Blend:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Global Fusion Toppings:
Sliced chorizo sausage
Thinly sliced red onion
Fresh cilantro
Sriracha drizzle
Preparation Process:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until thickened.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Spread the sauce evenly over the dough.
Top with the cheese blend, chorizo, red onion, and cilantro.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Serving Ideas:
Elevated Presentation: Serve the pizza on a wooden board, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Global Fusion Feast: Pair the pizza with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Spicy Kick: Offer a side of sriracha or hot honey for those who prefer a fiery finish.
Cultural Influences:
This recipe is a harmonious blend of various culinary traditions:
Italian: The foundation of pizza dough and tomato sauce is deeply rooted in Italian cuisine.
Mexican: The addition of chorizo brings a spicy, savory flavor profile, inspired by Mexican cuisine.
Southeast Asian: The use of fresh cilantro and a Sriracha drizzle adds a touch of Southeast Asian flair.
As we savor each bite of this global fusion pizza, we embark on a culinary journey that transcends borders. It’s a testament to the power of food to unite cultures and inspire creativity. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of diversity and a testament to the endless possibilities of flavor.
