Potato Pizza is a unique twist on the classic pizza, showcasing the versatility of potatoes as a base instead of traditional bread dough. Hailing from the culinary repertoire of renowned Aussie chef Ian Parmenter, this recipe epitomizes simplicity yet packs a punch of flavor. It’s a delightful option for adventurous cooks looking to expand their culinary horizons, as Ian Parmenter himself describes it as a “simple pizza style dish that doesn’t need bread dough.”
The beauty of this recipe lies in its reliance on the humble spud to create a satisfying base, complemented by a medley of onions, extra virgin olive oil, red wine, oregano, mixed herbs, reduced-fat milk, egg, plain flour, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients come together harmoniously to form a delectable foundation for your pizza toppings of choice.
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your ingredients and prepare accordingly. With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a total cooking time of 2 hours, including 40 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a sumptuous Potato Pizza ready to enjoy in no time.
To start, finely slice onions into rings and brown them to perfection in a little extra virgin olive oil. Once they’ve achieved a rich caramelized hue, introduce the red wine and a hint of thyme, then allow the flavors to meld together over gentle heat for approximately three quarters of an hour. Keep an eye on the onions to ensure they remain moist, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent them from drying out and sticking to the pan.
While the onions simmer away, it’s time to prepare the star of the show – the potato base. Peel and grate the potatoes, ensuring they’re adequately drained of any excess moisture. In a spacious bowl, combine the grated potato with a mixture of milk, egg, flour, nutmeg, cheese, and a dash of pepper. This forms the hearty foundation of your Potato Pizza.
Prepare a shallow ovenproof pan by lightly oiling it, then incorporate the onion and wine mixture into the potato and egg concoction, stirring until well combined. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to form a uniform layer. Slide the pan into a preheated oven set to 200°C (approximately 400°F) and let it bake for around 40 minutes until it develops a golden crust.
Once the base is partially baked, it’s time to unleash your creativity with toppings. Whether you prefer classic combinations like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, or opt for more adventurous pairings, the choice is yours. Scatter your chosen toppings over the partially baked base and return it to the oven until the cheese melts and the toppings are heated through.
Alternatively, for a quicker finish, you can place the pizza under the grill for a few moments until the toppings are bubbly and golden. Serve your Potato Pizza piping hot, paired with a glass of robust Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the rich flavors.
With its wholesome ingredients and tantalizing flavors, Potato Pizza offers a delightful twist on a beloved classic, making it an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend feast. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace your inner chef, and embark on a culinary adventure with this Aussie-inspired delight.