Imagine sinking your teeth into a pizza that captures the vibrant essence of Northern Thailand—Sai Oua Pizza. This delightful dish marries the rich, herbal flavors of Northern Thai grilled sausage with the comforting, crispy crust of traditional pizza. Topped with fragrant herbs and spices like lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili, each slice is a tantalizing adventure for your taste buds. Typically found in Northern Thai cuisine and popular in local eateries, you can expect to pay around 300-600 baht ($9-$18) for this gourmet experience. For those following a ketogenic diet, the keto Sai Oua Pizza offers a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
Origin and Inspiration
The origins of Sai Oua trace back to the picturesque mountains of Northern Thailand, where the sausage is traditionally crafted using ground meat, spices, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. This dish is often enjoyed as part of a communal meal or paired with sticky rice and spicy dipping sauces, embodying the warmth of Thai hospitality.
While similar spicy sausages can be found globally—like Chorizo in Spain or Merguez in North Africa—Sai Oua remains uniquely Thai, characterized by its aromatic layers of flavor. The keto Sai Oua Pizza swaps out the traditional crust for low-carb alternatives using almond flour or coconut flour, preserving the sausage’s juicy essence while ensuring you remain within your macro goals. This adaptation enhances both flavor and texture, bringing a modern twist to a beloved classic.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 470 kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 450mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g
Keto Version
Calories: 360 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 850mg | Potassium: 480mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 400g Northern Thai sausage (Sai Oua)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili paste (nam prik pao or similar)
- Fresh basil or cilantro for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (almond flour or coconut flour-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base:
- Traditional Version:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your preferred thickness, letting the aroma of yeast fill the kitchen. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to your recipe, ensuring it’s pre-baked until lightly golden for the best flavor and texture.
2. Grill the Sai Oua:
Fire up your grill or stovetop. Grill the Northern Thai sausage until perfectly charred, releasing a symphony of spices into the air. Allow the sausages to cool slightly before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread a thin layer of chili paste over your prepared pizza crust. Arrange the grilled Sai Oua evenly over the sauce and sprinkle with a generous helping of mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into gooey perfection.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Place the assembled pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your pizza rest for a minute. Top with fresh basil or cilantro and an extra drizzle of olive oil. Slice and serve hot, relishing the tantalizing blend of flavors.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Pair your Sai Oua Pizza with a chilled Mug of Thai beer or a side of spicy papaya salad that cuts through the richness of the cheese and sausage.
- Keto Pairing: Enjoy with a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon and mint or a side of low-carb coleslaw to keep the meal light and satisfying.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: This pizza is best consumed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: Similarly, the keto pizza maintains its flavor for up to 3 days when refrigerated.
- Freezing: Both versions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Air Fryer: Utilize an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) to cook smaller servings or leftovers in approximately 8-10 minutes, ensuring the results are crispy and satisfying.
- Stovetop: For a quick fix, heat a skillet over medium heat and place the assembled pizza in, covering it until the cheese melts, which takes about 10–12 minutes.
Conclusion
The Northern Thai Sausage Sai Oua Pizza is a dazzling symphony of flavor that beautifully merges traditional Northern Thai sausage with the beloved format of pizza. Whether you opt for the classic version or the keto variant, each slice offers a unique experience filled with rich, aromatic spices, savory cheese, and a crispy base. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also fits seamlessly into a balanced meal or exceptional snack—perfect for any culinary occasion. Embrace this culinary journey, and allow your taste buds to revel in the harmonious blend of Thai and Italian cuisine!