Pizza Rustica A Sicilian Sausage and Prosciutto Pie

Mastering the Art of Sicilian Savory Perfection with Pizza Rustica – A Culinary Symphony of Sausage, Prosciutto, and Flavorful Harmony!

Dive into the heart of Sicilian culinary traditions with our Pizza Rustica recipe. This savory masterpiece, also known as Sicilian Sausage and Prosciutto Pie, is a celebration of robust flavors, melding the richness of sausage and the elegance of prosciutto into a symphony for your taste buds. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we unravel the secrets to creating this timeless Sicilian delight – an ode to craftsmanship and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Ingredients:

For the Rustic Pizza Dough:

1. All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups:
   • The base for a hearty and rustic crust.
2. Active Dry Yeast – 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons):
   • The key leavening agent for a light and airy dough.
3. Warm Water – 1 cup:
   • Activates the yeast and binds the dough.
4. Olive Oil – 1/4 cup:
   • Infuses the dough with a subtle richness.
5. Salt – 1 teaspoon:
   • Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.

For the Filling:

1. Sweet Italian Sausage – 1 pound (casing removed):
   • Adds a savory and spiced kick.
2. Prosciutto – 1/2 pound (thinly sliced):
   • Elevates the pie with a delicate saltiness.
3. Ricotta Cheese – 2 cups:
   • Creates a creamy and luscious filling.
4. Eggs – 4 large:
   • Binds the filling together and adds richness.
5. Pecorino Romano Cheese – 1 cup (grated):
   • Infuses a sharp and salty flavor.

For the Egg Wash:

1. Egg – 1 (beaten):
   • Gives the crust a golden and glossy finish.

Instructions:

Preparing the Rustic Pizza Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mixing the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Kneading:
   • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Cooking Sausage:
   • In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
2. Combining Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage, prosciutto, ricotta, eggs, and Pecorino Romano until well combined.

Assembling Pizza Rustica:

1. Rolling Out the Dough:
   • Roll out two-thirds of the dough to fit a deep-dish pie pan. Press it into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
2. Filling the Crust:
   • Spoon the filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Rolling Out the Top Crust:
   • Roll out the remaining dough to create the top crust. Place it over the filling, sealing the edges.
4. Egg Wash:
   • Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Baking:

1. Preheating the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Baking Time:
   • Bake the Pizza Rustica for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
3. Cooling:
   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Flavorful Additions: Consider adding sautéed onions, garlic, or fresh herbs to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina to customize the flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the sausage with a medley of roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute almond flour and coconut flour for the all-purpose flour in the crust.
• Use a keto-friendly sweet Italian sausage.

Low-Carb Version:

• Replace the all-purpose flour with a blend of almond and coconut flour.
• Opt for a low-carb substitute for the sweet Italian sausage.

In the realm of Sicilian cuisine, Pizza Rustica stands as a testament to the art of blending bold flavors into a harmonious masterpiece. From the savory embrace of sweet Italian sausage to the delicate touch of prosciutto, each bite is a journey through the rich culinary tapestry of Sicily. Whether shared with family or savored in solitude, Pizza Rustica is more than a pie – it’s an experience, a tradition, and a celebration of the culinary arts. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and immerse yourself in the joy of crafting this Sicilian treasure. Buon Appetito!