Pizza Rustica
Pizza Rustica, also known as Italian Easter Pie, is a savory pie filled with a delicious mix of meats and cheeses, encased in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- List of Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Filling:
- 1 pound ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound cooked Italian sausages sliced
- 1 cup diced pancetta
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large eggs beaten
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 package of active dry yeast.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta and ham until slightly crispy. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, the cooked Italian sausages, cooked pancetta, and ham.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 4 beaten eggs to the mixture. Mix well.
- Assemble the Pizza Rustica:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out one part on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch springform pan, covering the bottom and sides.
- Pour the filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second part of the dough to cover the top. Place it over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together. Trim any excess dough.
- Cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust lightly with olive oil.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Additional Notes:
Let the pizza rustica cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.