Ingredients
Creating this pizza requires just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Pizza dough: Homemade or store-bought, choose what fits your time and comfort level. The dough is the canvas for our flavorful toppings.
– Maple syrup: This adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully. It’s like a drizzle of love on your pizza.
– Bacon: Opt for thick-cut if you can. Its smoky, salty goodness is essential.
– Onions: Yellow or red onions work well here. They’ll be transformed into caramelized wonders.
– Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions to perfection.
– Mozzarella cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully, holding everything together.
– Fresh arugula: Optional, but its peppery bite adds a fresh contrast to the rich toppings.
– A pinch of salt and pepper: To season and elevate the flavors.
These ingredients come together like a harmonious orchestra, each note playing its part in creating an unforgettable dish.
Instructions
Making this pizza is a delightful process, and I’m here to guide you through it, step by step:
1. **Prepare the onions**: Slice your onions thinly. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the onions. Stir occasionally, letting them caramelize slowly. This can take 20-30 minutes, but the result is worth the wait.
2. **Cook the bacon**: While the onions are caramelizing, cook your bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
3. **Prepare the dough**: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. I love the hands-on feel of stretching the dough, reminiscent of those early lessons in my grandmother’s kitchen.
4. **Assemble the pizza**: Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush a light layer of maple syrup over the base. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, followed by the caramelized onions and bacon.
5. **Bake**: Transfer to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
6. **Finish with arugula**: Once out of the oven, top with fresh arugula, if using. It adds a lovely freshness that cuts through the richness of the toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International