Cal-Italia Pizza

Step into a realm of culinary creativity with our Cal-Italia pizza—a delightful fusion of California and Italy, born from a moment of inspiration during a grueling pizza competition. Imagine a gourmet pizza crafted with the perfect blend of traditional Italian ingredients and a splash of California flair. In this recipe, we bring together prosciutto, fig jam, Gorgonzola, Asiago, and balsamic vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize your taste buds like never before. The judges were impressed, and now, you too can embark on this extraordinary culinary journey right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Join us as we combine the best of both worlds and elevate your pizza experience to new heights with our Cal-Italia pizza.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (13-ounce/370-gram) ball Master Dough, preferably with starter, made with Poolish
• 3 parts flour mixed with 1 part semolina, for dusting
• 2-ounce (55-gram) piece Asiago cheese, cold, for shaving
• 6 ounces (170 grams) whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (1½ cups)
• 1½ ounces (45 grams) Gorgonzola cheese, broken into small pieces
• 2 to 3 tablespoons (40-60 grams) fig jam, preferably Dalmatia brand
• 3 ounces (85 grams) thinly sliced prosciutto (about 6 slices)
• Balsamic Glaze, in a small squeeze bottle

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat two pizza stones or baking steels in the oven at 500°F for 1 hour.
2. Dust the work surface with the flour and semolina mixture.
3. Roll out the dough into a round 15 inches in diameter, trim to a 13-inch round, flatten the edge, and dock the surface of the dough.
4. Shave the cold Asiago over the surface of the dough, leaving a ¾-inch border.
5. Mound the shredded mozzarella in the center of the pizza and spread it evenly over the Asiago.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Slide the pizza onto the top stone and bake for 7 minutes.
2. Lift the pizza onto the peel and distribute the Gorgonzola pieces evenly over the top.
3. Rotate the pizza 180 degrees, transfer it to the bottom stone, and bake for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Transfer the pizza to a cutting board and cut into 6 wedges.
5. Spoon small dollops of fig jam around the pizza.
6. Tear the prosciutto slices lengthwise into 2 or 3 strips and drape them over the pizza slices.
7. Finish by squeezing a thin spiral of balsamic glaze onto the pizza.

TIPS:

• For the best results, use quality ingredients like authentic Italian prosciutto and Dalmatia brand fig jam.
• To shave the Asiago, use a vegetable peeler for delicate and even slices.
• Adjust the amount of fig jam to your taste preference, adding a touch more sweetness if desired.

YIELD:

• One 13-inch pizza; 6 slices

Indulge in a pizza experience that bridges the culinary traditions of California and Italy with our Cal-Italia pizza. Inspired by a competitive pizza challenge, this delightful creation unites the classic flavors of Italy with a splash of California’s innovative spirit. Picture a gourmet pizza adorned with prosciutto, fig jam, Gorgonzola, Asiago, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze—it’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you enchanted from the first bite.

The journey of crafting this extraordinary pizza starts with the perfect pizza dough, ideally made with a starter for that extra depth of flavor. Preheat two pizza stones or baking steels in the oven to achieve the ultimate crispiness that complements the topping medley.

As you lay the foundation of shredded mozzarella and cold-shaved Asiago on the dough, you set the stage for an exceptional taste experience. The Gorgonzola adds a delightful touch of creaminess that blends seamlessly with the richness of the fig jam. The fig jam’s sweetness beautifully contrasts with the savory notes of prosciutto, creating a harmony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Bake the pizza to perfection, rotating it for even cooking and a beautifully golden crust. The final touch—a drizzle of balsamic glaze—adds a touch of tanginess that ties all the flavors together. The result is an unforgettable pizza creation that celebrates the best of both worlds.

To enhance your Cal-Italia pizza adventure, consider using authentic Italian prosciutto and Dalmatia brand fig jam. The quality of the ingredients elevates the dish to a whole new level of taste and sophistication.

With every bite, you’ll embark on a culinary journey that transcends borders and redefines the art of pizza-making. The Cal-Italia pizza epitomizes the spirit of fusion cuisine, where creativity knows no bounds, and classic traditions are celebrated with a twist.

Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a curious novice, our Cal-Italia pizza offers a delightful surprise for your taste buds. Share this unique creation with family and friends, and watch as they savor every slice with delight.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat those pizza stones, and prepare to delight your senses with a taste sensation like no other. Our Cal-Italia pizza invites you to embrace the spirit of culinary adventure and celebrate the art of pizza-making in all its flavorful glory.