Recipe: Croatian Peka Pizza

Introduction

Croatian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique cooking techniques. One such traditional dish is the Peka Pizza, which combines the deliciousness of pizza with the smoky flavors of the Peka cooking method. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this mouthwatering Croatian delicacy.

Ingredients

Dough:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 7g instant yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 300ml warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Toppings:

• 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 150g cooked ham, sliced
• 150g fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Handful of black olives, pitted and halved
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
3. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Toppings:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms, bell peppers, and red onion until they become tender.
3. Set aside the cooked vegetables.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.
2. Roll out each portion into a round pizza base of desired thickness.
3. Place the pizza bases on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on each pizza base.
5. Evenly distribute the cooked ham, sautéed vegetables, and black olives on top of the cheese.
6. Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.
7. Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Conclusion

The Croatian Peka Pizza is a delightful fusion of traditional Croatian flavors and the beloved pizza. With its smoky aroma and delicious toppings, it is sure to become a hit at your next gathering. So, gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy a taste of Croatia in the comfort of your own home.