Calzone / Pocket Pizza / McPuffs Recipe (With Baked Option)
Discover a delicious and customizable twist on pizza that’s perfect for snacking or as a savory treat. This recipe for Calzone or Pocket Pizza offers a baked option to create a healthier alternative that’s just as satisfying. Filled with a medley of vegetables, gooey cheese, and seasoned with Italian herbs, these calzones will bring a slice of Italy into your kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 ½ cups |
| Whole Wheat Flour | ½ cup |
| Water | As needed |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1 tsp (or ½ tbsp dry active yeast) |
| Sugar | 1 pinch |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 5 tbsp |
| Salt | As needed |
| Carrot, finely chopped | ½ cup |
| Green Beans, finely chopped | ½ cup |
| Green Bell Pepper, chopped | ½ cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | ½ cup |
| Sweet Corn | ¼ cup |
| Black Olives, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Tomato Puree | 3 tbsp |
| Vinegar | 1 tsp |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Red Chili Flakes | 1 tsp |
| White Pepper Powder | ½ tsp |
| Cheese, grated | 4 tbsp |
| Sunflower Oil (for frying) | Optional |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
- Gather all ingredients. In a small bowl, dissolve a pinch of sugar in warm water, then add the yeast and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Mix well with a whisk to avoid lumps.
- Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes until bubbly.
- Add 2 tbsp of olive oil, ½ to 1 tsp salt, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until it begins to form a dough.
- Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides.
- Incorporate the whole wheat flour, then knead the dough by hand until smooth and elastic. Brush with water and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
-
-
Prepare the Filling
- In a pan over low heat, add 3 tbsp of olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the carrot, green beans, bell pepper, and sweet corn, stirring well. Let cook until vegetables are tender.
- Mix in the tomato puree, vinegar, oregano, red chili flakes, and white pepper powder. Cook for a few more minutes, then stir in the grated cheese. Turn off the heat and set aside.
-
Assemble the Pocket Pizzas
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if opting for the baked version, or heat oil in a deep frying pan if frying.
- Divide the dough into small balls according to your preferred pocket pizza size. Roll each ball into a circle, like a small flatbread.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over to form a pocket, pressing the edges to seal firmly. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal.
-
Cook the Calzones
- Baked Option: Brush each pocket with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Check at the 20-minute mark; bake longer if needed.
- Fried Option: Carefully place the filled pockets in hot oil and fry until golden brown and crisp.
-
Serve
- Serve these calzones or McPuffs hot with a side of chili garlic sauce or Italian marinara for a delightful dipping experience!
Tips & Variations
- Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked and crumbled sausage or diced pepperoni to the filling.
- Cheese Variety: Swap grated cheese for mozzarella or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for an extra cheesy pull.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red chili flakes to make it milder or spicier according to preference.
