Pizza di Patate

Pizza di Patate, or Potato Pizza, is a delightful Italian dish that combines the comforting flavors of potatoes and cheese atop a crispy pizza crust. This recipe hails from the Puglia region in southern Italy, known for its rich culinary traditions. Based on my overall experience, this dish is both satisfying and straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Notes:

• The dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.
• Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and become tender during baking.
• For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the dough for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 2 packets)
• 1 7/8 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for oiling the dough and pan)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 5 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 4 large yellow potatoes
• 2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2-3 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Coarse sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, diced (optional)
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Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls, mandoline or sharp knife, baking pan or pizza stone, rolling pin
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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until creamy.
   • Add half of the flour to the yeast mixture and mix until combined.
   • With the mixer running, add salt and drizzle in olive oil. Mix well.
   • Gradually add the remaining flour and mix for 8-10 minutes until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
   • Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • While the dough is rising, wash and dry the potatoes. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them very thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).
   • Place the potato slices in a bowl and toss with olive oil, crushed garlic, rosemary (if using), sea salt, and black pepper. Ensure all slices are well coated.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or the highest setting. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
   • Oil your baking pan or pizza peel with olive oil.
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pan or pizza peel.
   • Layer the seasoned potato slices over the dough, slightly overlapping, covering the entire surface.
   • If desired, sprinkle diced mozzarella over the potatoes.
4. Bake:
   • Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the assembled pizza.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the potatoes are tender and slightly crispy at the edges.
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Variations and Tips:

• Cheese Options: While traditional Pizza di Patate often doesn’t include cheese, adding mozzarella or even provolone can enhance the flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary adds a lovely aroma, but thyme or oregano can be used as alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast doughs.
• Vegan Version: Omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Ensure the dough is made without animal products.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Additional Information:

• Prep Time: 1 hour (plus 1-2 hours for dough rising)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
• Ease of Cooking: Beginner-friendly
• Servings: 8 slices (serves 4)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course

I hope this guide has made making Pizza di Patate seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment.