Indulge your senses with the Eel Unagi Pizza, a gourmet twist that combines the rich, smoky flavors of grilled eel slathered in sweet unagi sauce atop a crispy, cheesy pizza base. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice where each bite is a decadent experience, showcasing tender eel paired harmoniously with the delightful crunch of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This luxurious pizza has gained popularity in upscale sushi restaurants and modern pizzerias, often found priced between $20 and $30 in cities like Tokyo and Los Angeles.
For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, the keto Eel Unagi Pizza offers a low-carb alternative that retains the dish’s enchanting flavors, making it a perfect treat for anyone on a keto diet.
Origin and Inspiration
The Eel Unagi Pizza is inspired by the traditional Japanese dish known as Unagi no Kabayaki, where eel is grilled and richly glazed with a sweet soy sauce called kabayaki. This culinary masterpiece is often enjoyed during the summer months in Japan, celebrated not only for its rich flavor but also for its cultural significance in Japanese cuisine. Much like the artistry of sushi or the creativity of Italian pizzas, this fusion dish represents a delightful meeting of two worlds—Asian and Italian cuisines.
For the keto version, we honor the vibrant taste of traditional unagi while using almond flour or cauliflower for the crust. This clever adaptation enhances the dish’s appeal for health-conscious individuals, yet still allows the flavors of grilled eel and velvety unagi sauce to shine through, creating a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 600 kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g
Keto Version
Calories: 420 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 200g grilled eel (unagi), sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup unagi sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions (scallions)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (almond flour or cauliflower-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base:
- Traditional Version:
Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) for a perfect crisp.
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to your recipe instructions, ensuring it is baked first with a golden finish.
2. Prepare the Eel:
In a medium pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Lightly warm the grilled eel slices for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb a hint of olive oil without losing their delicate texture. Add a drizzle of unagi sauce for added flavor and set aside.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread a thin layer of unagi sauce over your prepared pizza crust. Layer the warm grilled eel slices evenly across the top. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella before finishing with a scattering of green onions and a pinch of sesame seeds.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Place the assembled pizza onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, with a delicate crisp on the edges.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and finish with a final drizzle of unagi sauce, a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds, and a few more sliced scallions for freshness. Slice into wedges and serve hot, allowing the warm flavors to envelop your palate.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Consider sipping a crisp Japanese lager or an elegant glass of sake to complement the rich flavors of the unagi.
- Keto Pairing: Pair your keto Eel Unagi Pizza with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or lime for a zesty contrast to the savory eel.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: This pizza is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: The keto pizza also remains delicious in the fridge for about 4 days.
- Freezing: Both versions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grill: If you fancy a bit of smokiness, use your grill to cook the assembled pizza on a pizza stone for about 8-10 minutes, imparting a unique char.
- Air Fryer: For those with limited space or time, an air fryer can reheat or cook the pizza at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, guaranteeing a crispy outcome without any sogginess.
Conclusion
The Eel Unagi Pizza presents a delightful fusion of flavors that seamlessly marries the elegance of Japanese cuisine with the beloved comfort of pizza. Whether indulging in the traditional dough or savoring the keto-friendly crust, each bite promises a symphony of sweet and smoky notes paired with sumptuous cheese. It’s a culinary adventure that fits beautifully into any meal, proving that even a pizza can serve as a luxurious dining experience. Enjoy the journey through taste and tradition!