Rustic Brie and Mozzarella Pizza:
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
1 teaspoon sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pizza:
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup brie cheese, sliced (remove the rind if preferred)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
A drizzle of honey (optional, for added flavor)
Extra rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Make the Pizza Dough:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats for a crispy crust.
3. Shape the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rustic shape (circle or oval) about 12 inches in diameter, or your preferred size.
Transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
Brush the pizza dough with olive oil, leaving the edges bare for the crust.
Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the base, leaving a little room at the edges for the crust.
Arrange slices of brie cheese on top of the mozzarella.
Sprinkle the chopped rosemary or thyme over the pizza and season with salt and pepper.
Optionally, drizzle a small amount of honey over the pizza for a touch of sweetness.
5. Bake the Pizza:
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with more fresh rosemary or thyme before serving.
Slice and enjoy your rustic, cheesy pizza with a wonderful herb flavor!
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this pizza with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine like Chardonnay to complement the rich flavors of the cheese.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving for a bit of spice.
This pizza is perfect for casual dining, with its melt-in-your-mouth cheeses and fragrant herbs. Enjoy!