When it comes to dinner and meal ideas, pizza is always a crowd - pleaser. But if you're tired of the classic mozzarella and basil combination, it's time to embark on a culinary adventure with a colorful Asian pizza recipe inspired by the beloved banh mi sandwich. This unique pizza will tantalize your taste buds and bring a burst of exotic flavors to your dining table.
Let's start with the crust. You can use a pre - made pizza crust from the store for convenience, or if you're feeling adventurous, make your own. A thin and crispy crust works best to balance the rich and savory toppings. Roll out the dough into your desired shape and size, and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from bubbling up during baking. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for about 5 - 7 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Now, for the star of the show - the toppings. The inspiration from the banh mi sandwich means we'll be using a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. First, prepare a spread. You can make a simple mayonnaise - sriracha mixture. Combine about 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 1 - 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce, depending on your spice preference. Mix it well until it has a smooth consistency. Spread this mixture evenly over the pre - baked crust. The sriracha adds a spicy kick that is characteristic of Asian cuisine.
Next, add some protein. Thinly sliced grilled chicken or pork are great options. You can marinate the meat in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey for extra flavor. Grill the meat until it's cooked through and has nice grill marks. Arrange the sliced meat on top of the sriracha - mayo spread. The savory and tender meat will be a delicious contrast to the crispy crust.
Vegetables are an essential part of this pizza. Shredded carrots add a sweet and crunchy element. You can also include thinly sliced cucumbers, which are refreshing and hydrating. Fresh cilantro leaves bring a burst of herbaceous flavor. Scatter the carrots, cucumbers, and cilantro over the meat. Red onion slices add a sharp and tangy note. They provide a bit of bite to the overall flavor profile.
Don't forget the pickled daikon radish and carrots. These pickled vegetables are a staple in banh mi sandwiches and add a sour and slightly sweet flavor. They also add a beautiful pop of color to the pizza. Place a generous amount of pickled daikon and carrots on top of the other ingredients.
For the cheese, instead of the traditional mozzarella, you can use a small amount of feta cheese. Feta has a salty and tangy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Crumble the feta cheese over the pizza. The saltiness of the feta will enhance the overall taste and add a creamy element.
Finally, it's time for the finishing touch - the sriracha drizzle. Take a small amount of sriracha sauce and put it in a squeeze bottle. Drizzle the sriracha sauce over the pizza in a zig - zag pattern. The sriracha not only adds more heat but also makes the pizza look visually appealing.
Put the pizza back in the oven for another 8 - 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges of the crust are crispy. Once it's out of the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld together.
This Asian - inspired pizza is a great way to switch up your dinner routine. It combines the best of both worlds - the convenience and popularity of pizza with the bold and complex flavors of Asian cuisine. Whether you're having a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pizza is sure to be a hit. So, the next time you're looking for a new dinner idea, give this colorful Asian pizza recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
