Homemade Vegan Pizza Recipe

Introduction

Pizza night just got a delicious vegan upgrade! This homemade vegan pizza is packed with fresh vegetables, an easy-to-make tomato sauce, and a spelt dough base that’s both healthy and delicious. Topped with chewy tofu and finished with chili and garlic oil, this pizza proves that vegan food can be exciting and satisfying. Plus, you can make extra and freeze the dough for future pizza nights.

Ingredients

For the Spelt Dough Base

  • Spelt flour: 3 cups
  • Warm water: 1 cup
  • Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet)
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon

For the Easy Tomato Sauce

  • Tomato sauce: 1 cup
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black pepper: to taste

For the Toppings

  • Tofu: 1 block, pressed and cubed
  • Vegetables: Assorted (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
  • Chili oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic oil: 2 tablespoons

Instructions

Making the Spelt Dough Base

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine spelt flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Easy Tomato Sauce

  1. Cook Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Preparing the Toppings

  1. Prepare Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into small cubes. Toss with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optionally, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until slightly crispy.
  2. Chop Vegetables: Prepare your vegetables by washing and chopping them into desired sizes.

Assembling the Pizza

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
  2. Shape Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
  3. Add Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each rolled-out dough.
  4. Add Toppings: Arrange the tofu cubes and assorted vegetables over the sauce.

Baking the Pizza

  1. Bake Pizza: Transfer the assembled pizza to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the vegetables are tender.
  2. Finish with Oils: Drizzle the baked pizza with chili and garlic oil for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Pizza

  • Dough Storage: Double the dough recipe and freeze half for a quick pizza night later. Just thaw and use as needed.
  • Cheese Substitute: If you miss the cheesy texture, try adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a drizzle of cashew cream before baking.
  • Crispy Tofu: For extra chewy tofu, bake it separately before adding it to the pizza.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Calcium: 70 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg

Additional Tips

  • Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Other great options include olives, artichoke hearts, roasted garlic, or vegan sausage.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or some vegan garlic bread for a complete meal.

This homemade vegan pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite while sticking to plant-based ingredients. Enjoy making it with family and friends for a fun and interactive meal.