When it comes to pizza night, most of us are accustomed to the classic Italian - inspired flavors. The tangy tomato sauce, the stretchy mozzarella cheese, and the savory toppings like pepperoni or mushrooms have long been the go - to for a delicious pizza. However, it's time to break free from the norm and embark on a culinary adventure with a Mexican - flavored pizza.
This unique pizza recipe takes the traditional concept of pizza and infuses it with the bold and vibrant flavors of Mexico. Instead of the usual tomato sauce, we'll be using mole sauce. Mole is a complex and rich sauce that typically contains a blend of chili peppers, chocolate, nuts, and spices. It has a deep, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat, which adds a whole new dimension to the pizza.
To start making this mouth - watering Mexican pizza, you'll first need to prepare the crust. You can use a pre - made pizza crust if you're short on time, or make your own from scratch. For a homemade crust, combine flour, yeast, water, salt, and a bit of olive oil. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and roll it out into your desired pizza shape.
Next, it's time to spread the mole sauce over the crust. Use a spoon or a spatula to evenly distribute the sauce, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. The mole sauce should be spread thinly so that it doesn't overpower the other ingredients but still provides a strong flavor base.
One of the key ingredients in this Mexican pizza is queso Oaxaca. This cheese is similar to mozzarella in texture but has a unique, slightly sweet flavor. Shred the queso Oaxaca and sprinkle it generously over the mole sauce. The cheese will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a gooey and delicious layer on top of the pizza.
Black beans are another essential component of this pizza. They add a hearty and nutritious element to the dish. Drain and rinse a can of black beans, then spread them evenly over the cheese. Black beans are not only a great source of protein and fiber but also have a wonderful earthy flavor that pairs well with the mole sauce and queso Oaxaca.
You can also add some additional toppings to customize your Mexican pizza. Sliced jalapenos are a great choice if you like a bit of extra heat. Their crisp texture and spicy flavor will give the pizza a nice kick. Fresh cilantro can be chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and a hint of citrusy flavor. Sliced tomatoes can also be added for a pop of color and a juicy element.
Once you've added all your toppings, it's time to bake the pizza. Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 475°F (245°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet or a pizza stone and bake it for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the pizza while it's baking to make sure it doesn't burn.
When the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. The combination of the rich mole sauce, the gooey queso Oaxaca, the hearty black beans, and the fresh toppings creates a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. This Mexican - flavored pizza is not only delicious but also a great way to introduce new and exciting flavors to your family's dinner table.
So, the next time pizza night rolls around, skip the traditional Italian pizza and give this Mexican - inspired pizza a try. It's a fun and easy way to add some variety to your meals and explore the wonderful world of Mexican cuisine.
