Sicilian Pizza – A thick square pizza with a crispy bottom topped with tomato sauce anchovies onions and herbs

Tony MurakamiOctober 12, 2024014 views

Experience the delightful sensation of Sicilian Pizza, a luscious, thick-crust delight that delights the senses with its crispy base and fragrant toppings. This square pizza hails from the sunny shores of Sicily, combining a rich tomato sauce, robust anchovies, sweet onions, and aromatic herbs to create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Priced at around $15-$30 in pizzerias like Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix or Pizzarium in Rome, this classic is a favorite among pizza enthusiasts. For those watching their carbs, the keto Sicilian Pizza offers a delicious low-carb alternative, ensuring everyone can join in the pizza party!

Origin and Inspiration

Originating from the Island of Sicily, where the sun kisses the Mediterranean Sea, Sicilian Pizza has a history as rich as its flavors. Initially made by farmers in the fertile region, this pizza was designed to be filling and could easily be shared among friends and family. The thick, airy crust provides a sturdy platform for the bold toppings, which vary from region to region but often include ingredients like cheese, olives, and, of course, the traditional anchovies.

In many ways, Sicilian pizza resembles the thick-crust Grandma-style pizza found in other parts of Italy and consists of similar principles to Middle Eastern flatbreads topped with locally available ingredients. The introduction of a keto adaptation focuses on modifying the crust without compromising the original’s soul – it retains the delightful bake and bubbling toppings while using almond flour and cheese for a satisfying low-carb substitute.

For keto dieters, the keto Sicilian Pizza transforms traditional ingredients into a pizza that bursts with flavor while staying within low-carb dietary guidelines.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version

Keto Version

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients

1 cup crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup olive oil

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Traditional Version

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp yeast

3/4 cup warm water

1 onion, thinly sliced

4 anchovies, chopped

Keto Version

2 cups almond flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for crust binding)

1 onion, thinly sliced

4 anchovies, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough/Base:

Traditional Version:

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy. In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead until smooth. Allow it to rise for 1 hour.

Keto Version:
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and shredded mozzarella. Add warm water until it holds together. Let it rest for 15 minutes.

2. Sauté the Onions:

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onions until they become tender and caramelized. Add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Pre-bake the Pizza Base:

Both Versions:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll out your dough (or pat together if keto) into a thick square on a parchment-lined baking tray. Pre-bake for 10-12 minutes, or until just golden.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the base. Layer the caramelized onions, chopped anchovies, and sprinkle dried oregano. Finish with a generous topping of shredded mozzarella.

5. Bake the Pizza:

Return the assembled pizza to the oven. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are crispy. Check for doneness by tapping the base; it should feel firm.

6. Serve:

Once baked, let it cool slightly, slice into squares, and serve hot, fresh from the oven!

What Does It Pair Well With?

Traditional Pairing: The bold flavors of Sicilian Pizza pair beautifully with a light, crisp salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette or with a chilled glass of white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, perfect for enhancing the savory notes in the pizza.

Keto Pairing: For the keto version, enjoy it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar or a glass of sparkling water with a hint of lemon for a delightful balance.

What is the Shelf Life?

Traditional Version: Enjoy fresh, but it can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Keto Version: Similar to its traditional counterpart, it can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, use an oven or a toaster oven to keep the crust crisp.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (187°C) and cook the pizza for 10-12 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

Grill: Use a pizza stone on your grill at medium heat for a smoky flavor. Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy.

Conclusion

Whether you opt for the traditional rich flavors of Sicilian Pizza or the adaptable keto version, each slice offers a delightful journey through Sicilian culinary history. With its crispy outer crust and hearty toppings, this pizza is not just a meal but an experience—one that brings friends and family together around the table. Perfect for any occasion, both versions showcase how versatile and enjoyable a good pizza can be, making every bite rich with flavor and warmth.