Barbecuing pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this popular dish with a unique twist. By grilling your pizza, you can achieve a crispy crust, smoky flavor, and perfectly melted cheese. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to barbecue pizza, from preparing the dough and toppings to grilling techniques and serving suggestions. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of barbecue pizza and discover the mouthwatering possibilities!
Preparing the Dough:
To start, you will need to prepare the pizza dough. You can either make your own dough from scratch or save time using store-bought dough. If you opt for homemade dough, here’s a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
4. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil.
7. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Alternatively, if you decide to use store-bought dough, be sure to follow the instructions provided on the packaging.
Preparing the Toppings:
While the dough is rising, you can prepare your pizza toppings. The beauty of barbecue pizza is that you can get creative and use any ingredients you like. Here are some traditional and popular choices:
1. Tomato sauce:
Use either homemade marinara sauce or store-bought pizza sauce. Add some minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
2. Cheese:
Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for pizza, but feel free to experiment with other types like cheddar, gouda, or provolone.
3. Meat:
Popular options include pepperoni, cooked bacon, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken.
4. Vegetables:
Get your dose of veggies adding toppings like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, fresh tomatoes, or olives.
5. Herbs and spices:
Sprinkle some dried basil, oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the overall taste.
Remember to chop and prepare your toppings ahead of time to ensure a smooth and efficient grilling process.
Grilling Techniques:
Now that your dough has risen and your toppings are ready, it’s time to bring everything together on the grill. Follow these step-by-step instructions to barbecue your pizza to perfection:
1. Preheat your grill:
It’s important to preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). This ensures that your pizza cooks evenly and avoids a burnt crust.
2. Divide and shape the dough:
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into portions, depending on how many pizzas you want to make. Use your hands or a rolling pin to shape each portion into a round or rectangular shape, about ¼ inch thick. If the dough starts to stick, lightly flour your work surface.
3. Oil the grill grates:
Before placing the dough on the grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent the dough from sticking. You can use a basting brush or a folded paper towel dipped in cooking oil to coat the grates.
4. Precook one side of the dough:
Carefully place the shaped dough onto the preheated grill grates. Close the lid and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom side is lightly browned and has grill marks. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Flip the dough:
Using a spatula or tongs, gently flip the dough over to the other side. This is where the fun begins as you can start adding your toppings!
6. Add the toppings:
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the cooked side of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle your chosen cheese, meats, vegetables, and herbs evenly over the sauce. Get creative with the combinations!
7. Close the grill and cook until done:
Close the grill lid and let the pizza cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the bottom of the crust is browned and crispy. Monitor the heat closely to prevent burning.
8. Remove and garnish:
Using your spatula or tongs, carefully remove the grilled pizza from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
Now that your barbecue pizza is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Here are some serving suggestions that will take your pizza experience to the next level:
1. Slice and serve:
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice your grilled pizza into wedges or squares. Serve it hot and let everyone dig in while it’s still warm and gooey.
2. Dipping sauces:
Offer a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or balsamic glaze on the side. This adds an extra layer of flavor and allows your guests to personalize their pizza experience.
3. Salad pairing:
Accompany your barbecue pizza with a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the flavors. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and a lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully.
4. Wine or beer pairing:
Amp up your pizza party pairing your barbecue pizza with a refreshing beverage. Opt for a light and fruity red wine like a Beaujolais or a crisp craft beer such as a pale ale or pilsner.
5. Dessert pizza:
End your barbecue pizza feast with a sweet twist making a dessert pizza. Spread Nutella, sliced bananas, and mini marshmallows over a grilled dough, and let it cook for a few minutes until the marshmallows are golden and gooey. The perfect finale to your meal!
Conclusion:
Barbecuing pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy this beloved dish with a twist. By following the step-by-step guide above, you can create mouthwatering grilled pizzas with a crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and a touch of smokiness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to switch up your pizza game, this technique is sure to impress your family and friends. So fire up the grill, unleash your creativity with toppings, and indulge in the delightful experience of barbecue pizza. Get ready to savor every bite!