Craving a pizza that shakes up the usual toppings? Enter the Shrimp and Mayo Pizza, a delightful culinary adventure that marries the umami-rich flavors of fresh shrimp with the creamy goodness of Japanese mayonnaise, all crowned with a sprinkle of nori flakes. This unique dish has taken the culinary world by storm, particularly in Japanese izakayas and pizza joints, where it typically runs about $15-$25. If you’re looking for something extraordinary, both the traditional and keto versions of this pizza are sure to impress!
Origin and Inspiration
The Shrimp and Mayo Pizza draws its inspiration from the popular Japanese dish known as Ebi Mayonnaise, where succulent shrimp are lovingly coated in a rich, tangy mayo mix. This pizza variation mixes Japanese culinary traditions with an Italian classic, breathing new life into both cuisines. The addition of nori flakes adds a touch of the ocean, making each bite a flavor-packed journey.
You may find similarities with other seafood pizzas around the world, such as Italy’s Pizza ai Frutti di Mare featuring a range of seafood delights. The keto Shrimp and Mayo Pizza keeps the essence of this culinary innovation intact by swapping out traditional crust for a low-carb alternative, allowing you to indulge without sacrificing your diet.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 720mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g
Keto Version
Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 160mg | Sodium: 720mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp nori flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Traditional Version
- 1 standard pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto-friendly pizza crust (made with almond flour or cauliflower rice)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base
-
Traditional Version:
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until you achieve your desired thickness. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to your recipe, ensuring it’s baked until lightly golden. The moment you smell that nutty aroma, you know you’re on the right track!
2. Sauté the Shrimp
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season them with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and are cooked through; the aroma of tender shrimp will fill your kitchen, bringing delightful anticipation.
3. Assemble the Pizza
Spread a generous layer of Japanese mayo on your pizza base, as though laying down a creamy blanket. Evenly distribute the sautéed shrimp across the base, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Top it off with a thick sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into creamy goodness as it bakes.
4. Bake the Pizza
- Both Versions:
Place the assembled pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to bubble and turn golden, indicating it’s ready for the final step.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle a delicate layer of nori flakes over the gooey cheese—imagine the cloaking of the pizza in a veil of the ocean. Slice and serve hot, perhaps with an added drizzle of Japanese mayonnaise for extra creaminess.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp Sapporo beer or a citrusy Japanese lemonade to cut through the richness of the mayo and enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Keto Pairing: Pair your keto pizza with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon to keep things light, or a low-carb iced tea.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: Best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: Also best fresh, with a fridge life of around 3 days.
- Freezing: Both variations can be frozen for up to 1 month. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grill: For a smoky flavor, grill the pizza on medium-high heat for 5-8 minutes for a unique, charred crust experience.
- Air Fryer: If you’re short on time or want a mini version, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Conclusion
The Shrimp and Mayo Pizza is a stunning twist on the conventional pie. Both the traditional and keto versions offer unique flavor combinations that will delight your taste buds. Picture creamy shrimp melting into cheese beneath a crisp base, all enhanced by the familiar taste of the ocean through nori. This innovative dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that adds a splash of creativity to your dining routine. Whether it’s a night in or a gathering with friends, this pizza promises to satisfy and impress!