Calabrian Chili Red Pepper Pizza

Calabrian chili roasted red pepper pizza brings together sweet smoky peppers and bold spicy Calabrian chilis for a flavor-packed twist on pizza night The quick oven bake makes for extra bubbly cheese and a golden crust every time The first time I tried Calabrian chili paste on pizza was a total game changer and now friends beg for this combination whenever they visit

Ever since I brought this to a potluck party our group claimed it as the house favorite The honey drizzle is the part they always talk about afterward

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: about a third to a half pound Choose fresh refrigerated dough for the best chewy and crisp texture

• Sesame seeds: for sprinkling on the crust These add a nutty crunch that makes each bite special

• Marinara sauce: The base of sauciness Choose a high quality jar or use a homemade version if you like

• Calabrian chili paste: Two tablespoons provide real Italian heat and a smoky zing Look for jars in the gourmet or international aisle

• Roasted red peppers: Sliced and drained from a jar These are sweet and tangy Using fire roasted varieties brings extra depth

• Fish sauce: Just two teaspoons bring a touch of umami savoriness that ties together the flavors Choose a high quality brand for the cleanest taste

• Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melts beautifully for classic pizza stretch Always grate yourself if possible for best melt

• Shredded provolone cheese: This adds rich creamy flavor to balance the heat and smokiness

• Dried oregano: This classic seasoning brings an herby aroma Look for leaves that still have a vibrant green color

• Honey: For drizzling at the end to complement the spice Use a floral honey for even more dimension

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Preheat your oven to four hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Allow your oven to heat thoroughly for the crispiest base If you have a pizza stone place it inside to preheat as well

Shape the dough:

On a lightly floured surface use your fingertips to gently push and stretch the dough into a ten to twelve inch round Aim for an even thickness all over with a slightly thicker border for the crust Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment lined baking sheet

Season the crust:

Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the outer inch of the dough Sprinkle sesame seeds generously around the edge pressing lightly so they stick The oil helps turn the crust golden and keeps the seeds in place

Add sauce and toppings:

First spread an even layer of marinara sauce over the surface of the dough avoiding the crust Next dollop and spread the Calabrian chili paste so it merges with the sauce Layer on the sliced roasted red peppers arranging them evenly Drizzle the fish sauce gently over the toppings then sprinkle with dried oregano Top with mozzarella and provolone making sure to distribute both cheeses for even melting

Bake the pizza:

Place the sheet in the preheated oven on the center rack Bake for ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden and the crust edges are well browned If you like a crispier bottom carefully lift the pizza onto the stone for the last three minutes of baking

Finish and serve:

Remove carefully from the oven Sprinkle with an extra pinch of dried oregano then drizzle honey over the hot pizza Slice into wedges and enjoy while melty

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Honey has always been my favorite secret ingredient I love watching friends eyes light up with the first bite when that spicy honey combination lands This pizza is such a hit during gatherings that my niece now requests her own version at every family birthday

Storage Tips

Leftover pizza keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store slices in a covered container or wrap in foil for easy reheating Warm through in a toaster oven or on a hot skillet to restore the crispy crust texture Avoid microwaving if you like your crust crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Calabrian chili paste try a blend of crushed red pepper flakes and a dash of olive oil for heat Roasted red bell peppers are best but sauteed fresh bell peppers can provide a similar effect You can swap fish sauce for a few extra pinches of salt though you may lose depth in the overall flavor Smoked gouda or fontina can work in place of provolone

Serving Suggestions

This pizza stands well on its own but a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil pairs perfectly The peppery greens balance the richness You can also slice smaller squares for appetizers during parties Sprinkle with more sesame seeds or chili flakes if you want extra texture

Cultural and Historical Context

Calabrian chili paste is a staple of Southern Italian cuisine known for its fiery but fruity profile Pairing it with naturally sweet roasted peppers is a nod to the region’s traditional approach of balancing warmth with bright vegetable flavors Modern pizza often incorporates bold global flavors like fish sauce here which reflects contemporary Italian American innovation

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese for this pizza?

Yes, you can swap mozzarella or provolone for other melting cheeses like fontina or gouda to customize the flavor.

→ Is fish sauce necessary for the topping?

Fish sauce adds savory depth, but the pizza still tastes delicious if you leave it out. Try soy sauce for a similar result.

→ How spicy is Calabrian chili paste?

It brings a moderate to high heat. Adjust the quantity to your taste or mix with tomato sauce for less intensity.

→ Can I make this with store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Ready-made dough makes prep simple, just stretch it to your desired thickness before topping.

→ What does honey add to the finished pizza?

A drizzle of honey balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness, rounding out the flavors beautifully.