Pizza Fritta
Pizza Fritta (Fried Pizza) Recipe 🍕🔥
Pizza Fritta, or fried pizza, is a traditional Italian street food that offers a unique twist on classic pizza. Unlike the baked version, this delicious dish involves frying the dough until it turns golden and crispy before adding toppings. It’s a perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a fun new way to enjoy pizza or craving an authentic Italian treat, this recipe will guide you through making your very own Pizza Fritta at home!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon instant yeast
¾ cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
½ cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
½ cup sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, or veggies (optional)
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
Add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
Mix well and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls, roughly the size of a tennis ball.
Lightly flour a surface and roll or stretch each dough ball into a round shape, about 6 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Fry the Pizza Base
In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place each dough round into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until it turns golden brown and puffy.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried dough and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Cook Again
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each fried dough base.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by your choice of toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or veggies.
Sprinkle dried oregano and chili flakes for added flavor.
Transfer the topped fried pizzas to a baking sheet and place them under a broiler or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve hot and enjoy your crispy, delicious Pizza Fritta with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of salad!
Tips for Perfect Pizza Fritta
Use Fresh Dough: Freshly made dough gives the best texture and flavor.
Control the Frying Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the dough may brown too quickly without cooking inside properly. Keep the temperature moderate.
Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place the dough on paper towels to remove any excess oil before adding toppings.
Experiment with Toppings: Traditional Pizza Fritta can be customized with any toppings you love, from classic pepperoni to gourmet truffle oil and arugula.
Double Fry Method: Some variations involve frying the dough again after adding toppings for extra crispiness.
Healthier Alternative
If you want a lighter version of Pizza Fritta, consider these adjustments:
Use whole wheat flour for a fiber-rich dough.
Air-fry instead of deep-frying for a lower oil content.
Load up on fresh veggies and use low-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Pizza Fritta pairs well with:
A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Garlic aioli or marinara sauce for dipping.
A glass of chilled white wine or Italian soda.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover Pizza Fritta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Freezing: Freeze fried pizza bases (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Reheat and add toppings before serving.
Final Thoughts
Pizza Fritta is a delightful variation of traditional pizza that combines crispy fried dough with gooey melted cheese and flavorful toppings. It’s an excellent dish to share with family and friends, and it offers endless opportunities for customization. Whether you keep it simple with classic tomato and mozzarella or experiment with gourmet ingredients, this fried pizza is sure to impress!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy an authentic Italian street food experience right from your kitchen! Buon appetito! 🍕🔥
