Kefir Pizza

This kefir pizza recipe combines the tangy flavor of kefir with a soft, tender crust. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for any pizza lover.


Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) plain kefir (room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings:

  • ½ cup (120 ml) pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: Fresh basil, sliced vegetables, pepperoni, or your favorite toppings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
    • Add kefir and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  2. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
  3. Shape the Dough:
    • Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface.
    • Roll out or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle. For a crispier crust, roll it thinner.
  4. Assemble the Pizza:
    • Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
    • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
    • Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce and add your favorite toppings.
  5. Bake:
    • Transfer the pizza to the oven (or onto the pizza stone if using).
    • Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, slice, and enjoy!

Tips:

  • Tangier Dough: Add 1–2 tablespoons more kefir for extra tangy flavor, but adjust flour as needed.
  • Whole Wheat Option: Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier crust.
  • Gluten-Free Variation: Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid as necessary.

This kefir pizza is easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sure to impress with its unique flavor and texture!