The supreme pizza is one of the most popular and beloved pizza types around the world. It combines a variety of ingredients that create a delightful explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re making it at home or ordering it from a pizzeria, the supreme pizza has become a go-to choice for pizza lovers who want to experience a little bit of everything.
But what exactly makes up a supreme pizza? The ingredients on a supreme pizza vary depending on the pizzeria or personal preference, but there are some classic toppings and elements that are almost always included. In this article, we will explore what goes into a traditional supreme pizza, its history, and how you can create your own supreme pizza at home.
What Is a Supreme Pizza?
A supreme pizza is typically defined as a pizza that contains a wide variety of toppings, making it a hearty and flavorful option for those who enjoy diverse tastes. It often includes a combination of meats, vegetables, and cheese, creating a pizza that is as filling as it is delicious. The supreme pizza is known for its bold flavors, as it features a variety of ingredients that complement each other well.
Classic Ingredients on a Supreme Pizza
A traditional supreme pizza includes a combination of both meat and vegetable toppings, along with cheese and sauce. Let’s take a closer look at the most common ingredients found on a supreme pizza.
1. Pizza Dough
Every pizza begins with dough, and the dough on a supreme pizza is no different. The dough serves as the base for all the toppings and is typically made from flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is rolled out into a thin or thick crust, depending on personal preference, and baked until golden and crispy.
2. Pizza Sauce
A supreme pizza is generally topped with a rich, savory pizza sauce. The sauce is typically made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, herbs (such as basil and oregano), and sometimes a pinch of sugar. Some pizzerias use a marinara sauce, while others may use a slightly spicier version to enhance the overall flavor profile of the pizza.
In addition to traditional tomato sauce, some pizza makers opt for white sauce or pesto sauce as a base for their supreme pizza. White sauce, made from cream, butter, and flour, creates a smoother, creamier base. Pesto sauce, made from basil, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan, offers a bold, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the pizza’s toppings.
3. Cheese
Cheese is a crucial element of any pizza, and a supreme pizza is no exception. The cheese used on a supreme pizza is typically a blend of mozzarella and sometimes cheddar or provolone.
Mozzarella: The most common cheese used on a supreme pizza, mozzarella provides the iconic melt, stretch, and creamy texture that makes pizza so enjoyable. It has a mild flavor that complements all of the other ingredients on the pizza.
Cheddar: While not always included, cheddar cheese may be added to a supreme pizza to give it a sharper, more pronounced flavor. It melts well and can add a rich, tangy taste.
Provolone: Provolone is another cheese that can be used in combination with mozzarella for added flavor and depth. It has a mild, slightly tangy taste that works well with the meats and vegetables on a supreme pizza.
4. Meats
One of the defining characteristics of a supreme pizza is the variety of meats included. The combination of different meats adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs well with the vegetables and cheese. The most common meats found on a supreme pizza include:
Pepperoni: Pepperoni is a classic pizza topping that adds a slightly spicy and savory kick to a supreme pizza. It’s made from cured beef and pork and is often sliced thinly, allowing it to crisp up nicely when baked.
Sausage: Italian sausage, whether sweet or spicy, is another staple on a supreme pizza. The sausage is usually crumbled or sliced and adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the other meats and vegetables. Some pizzerias may also use breakfast sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Ham: Ham is another common meat topping on a supreme pizza. It’s typically thinly sliced and adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances the stronger tastes of the pepperoni and sausage.
Bacon: Bacon is often included in the mix of meats on a supreme pizza. It’s cooked until crispy and adds a salty, smoky crunch that enhances the overall texture and flavor of the pizza.
Ground Beef: Some variations of supreme pizza include ground beef, which adds a hearty, savory taste to the mix of meats. It’s typically browned before being added to the pizza to ensure the best texture.
5. Vegetables
In addition to the meats, vegetables play an important role in the flavor and texture of a supreme pizza. They add freshness, color, and balance to the dish. The following vegetables are commonly found on a traditional supreme pizza:
Bell Peppers: Red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers are often included on supreme pizzas. Their sweetness and crunch provide a nice contrast to the savory meats. Bell peppers are typically sliced into thin rings or chunks, allowing them to cook quickly and evenly.
Onions: Onions, whether red, white, or yellow, are a classic vegetable topping for supreme pizza. They add a sweet and savory flavor that pairs well with the meats. Some pizzerias use caramelized onions for a sweeter, more robust flavor, while others use raw onions for a sharper bite.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms are another popular vegetable on supreme pizza. Their earthy, umami flavor enhances the overall taste of the pizza, and their texture provides a nice contrast to the meats and cheese. Common mushroom varieties used on supreme pizza include button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, and portobello mushrooms.
Olives: Black olives are frequently included on supreme pizzas. They add a briny, slightly bitter flavor that balances out the richness of the meats and cheese. Some pizzas may use green olives for a different flavor profile.
Tomatoes: Sliced fresh tomatoes may be added to a supreme pizza to enhance the flavor and add a burst of juiciness. They can also help balance the saltiness of the meats and the richness of the cheese.
Spinach: Although not always found on a traditional supreme pizza, spinach can be used as a healthy, flavorful addition. Spinach adds a mild, slightly earthy flavor and works well with other vegetables like mushrooms and onions.
6. Seasonings and Herbs
To bring all the ingredients together, seasonings and herbs are sprinkled over the pizza. The most common herbs and seasonings for supreme pizza include:
Oregano: Oregano is a classic herb used on nearly all pizzas. It has a warm, slightly bitter flavor that complements the tomato sauce and works well with the meats and vegetables.
Basil: Fresh basil is often added to supreme pizza for a burst of aromatic, slightly sweet flavor. It pairs particularly well with the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the bell peppers and tomatoes.
Garlic: Garlic is a key ingredient in the pizza sauce and can also be sprinkled on the pizza for added flavor. It adds a savory, slightly spicy note that enhances the overall taste of the pizza.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat on your pizza, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled over the top. They add spice and a bit of kick that can balance out the richness of the meats and cheese.
7. Drizzle and Finishes
Some people like to drizzle additional ingredients over the pizza after it has been baked. Popular options include:
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil on a hot pizza adds richness and a touch of smooth flavor. It can help bring together all of the ingredients and create a slightly glossy finish.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add sweetness and acidity to a supreme pizza, cutting through the richness of the cheese and meats.
How to Make Your Own Supreme Pizza at Home
Making a supreme pizza at home allows you to customize your toppings to suit your tastes. Here’s how you can create your own supreme pizza from scratch:
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by preparing your pizza dough. You can make it from scratch, or buy pre-made dough from the store. Roll the dough into a circle and place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
2. Add the Sauce
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the dough. If you prefer a white pizza, you can use a creamy white sauce or pesto instead.
3. Layer the Cheese
Add a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pizza. You can mix in some cheddar or provolone cheese for extra flavor if you’d like.
4. Top with Meats
Layer your meats on top of the cheese. Use a combination of pepperoni, sausage, ham, bacon, and any other meat you like.
5. Add Vegetables
Add your vegetables to the pizza. You can include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, tomatoes, and spinach.
6. Season the Pizza
Sprinkle oregano, basil, and garlic over the toppings. You can also add red pepper flakes for some heat.
7. Bake the Pizza
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Finish and Serve
Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. You can drizzle some olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top if desired.
Conclusion
The supreme pizza is a perfect choice for anyone who loves variety in their food. With its blend of meats, vegetables, cheese, and seasonings, it offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re enjoying a classic supreme pizza from a pizzeria or making your own at home, the combination of flavors and textures makes for an unforgettable meal.
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