Brie Pizza

Brie Pizza Recipe - A French Classic

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brie Pizza is a gourmet twist on the classic Italian dish, blending the creamy, decadent flavors of Brie cheese with the rustic charm of a homemade pizza. This recipe elevates the traditional pizza experience with its unique combination of ingredients, including grape tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and fresh basil, creating a dish that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, Brie Pizza promises to impress and satisfy any palate.

History

The concept of using Brie on pizza is a relatively modern innovation, reflecting the growing trend of incorporating artisanal cheeses into traditional dishes. While pizza itself has a rich history dating back to ancient times, the addition of Brie cheese is a testament to the culinary experimentation and fusion of flavors that have become popular in recent decades. This recipe, with its blend of Italian and French influences, showcases how global cuisines can come together to create something truly special.

Ingredients

0.33 cup plus 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
1 tsp minced fresh parsley
0.13 tsp red pepper flakes
2 lb (907 g) pizza dough
2 tbsp cornmeal
3 cups grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1 cup toasted pine nuts
1 lb (454 g) brie, rind removed, diced
0.25 cup fresh basil leaves
1 cup shredded gruyère cheese

How to prepare

In a saucepan or skillet, warm 0.33 cup of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring often, for 4 to 5 minutes or until the garlic has softened. Set it aside to cool.
Roll out two circles of dough. Coat deep-dish pizza pans with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle them with cornmeal. Place the dough circles in the pans and press the dough up the sides.
Divide the garlic-olive oil mixture over the two pizzas and spread it over the bottom of the crust.
Spread 1.5 cups of halved grape tomatoes over each crust, followed by 0.5 cup of pine nuts. Divide the Brie cheese between the two pizzas and distribute it evenly over the crusts. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and 0.5 cup of Gruyère cheese over each pizza.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the pizzas until the crust is light brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding sliced prosciutto, caramelized onions, or arugula after baking. These ingredients can introduce new textures and flavors, making the pizza even more gourmet.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Brie Pizza turns out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:

- Allow the pizza dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out, making it easier to handle.

- Use a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet to get a crispier crust.

- For an extra flavor boost, roast the grape tomatoes before adding them to the pizza.

- Be generous with the olive oil for a rich, moist crust.

- Experiment with the thickness of the Brie slices to suit your taste; thinner slices will melt more evenly, while thicker slices provide a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Brie Pizza with a side of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance to the meal. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, can complement the creamy flavors of the Brie beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect crust is crucial for Brie Pizza. Preheating your oven and using a pizza stone can mimic the effect of a traditional pizza oven, resulting in a crispy base and evenly melted cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Brie is not to your liking or hard to find, Camembert makes an excellent substitute. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza dough. Vegan cheese can replace Brie and shredded cheese for those avoiding dairy.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the pizza dough and garlic-olive oil mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake the pizza, saving time and effort on busy days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked pizza with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation. Serving the pizza on a wooden board adds a rustic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Aside from white wine, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can also pair well with Brie Pizza. For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or an herbal tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Brie Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crispy again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Brie Pizza contains approximately 540 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying meal option. The calories are derived from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Brie Pizza contains approximately 58 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the pizza dough and grape tomatoes, providing energy and dietary fiber.

Fats

This recipe is rich in fats, with approximately 27 grams per serving. The fats come from healthy sources such as olive oil and pine nuts, as well as the Brie and shredded cheese, contributing to the pizza's creamy texture and satisfying mouthfeel.

Proteins

Each serving of Brie Pizza offers around 22 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The protein in this dish comes from the Brie cheese, shredded cheese, and to a lesser extent, the pine nuts.

Vitamins and minerals

Brie Pizza is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, vitamin C from the tomatoes, and vitamin E from the olive oil and pine nuts. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and antioxidant activity.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (Brie and shredded cheese) and gluten (pizza dough). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Brie Pizza is a nutrient-rich dish that balances indulgence with a variety of healthful ingredients. While it is higher in calories and fats, it also provides protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, making it a worthwhile addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Brie Pizza is a sophisticated and flavorful take on the classic pizza, combining the creamy texture of Brie with the freshness of tomatoes and basil. With its rich nutritional profile and versatile serving options, this dish is sure to delight and satisfy. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, Brie Pizza offers an opportunity to explore new flavors and techniques in the kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend, Claire, for lunch. As I entered her kitchen, the delicious aroma of melted cheese and herbs filled the air. Claire was busy kneading dough and spreading a creamy cheese mixture onto a pizza crust.

"What are you making?" I asked, intrigued by the unique combination of ingredients.

"It's a Brie Pizza," Claire replied with a smile. "I learned this recipe from my trip to France last year. It's a simple yet sophisticated dish that never fails to impress."

As I watched Claire effortlessly assemble the pizza, I couldn't help but feel inspired. The way she combined the rich flavors of brie cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of honey was truly a work of art. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

After enjoying a delicious lunch of Brie Pizza with Claire, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. She happily agreed and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, making another batch of the mouthwatering pizza together.

From that day on, Brie Pizza became a staple in my recipe collection. I would often make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. Each time I made the pizza, I would think back to that summer day in Claire's kitchen and feel grateful for the inspiration she had given me.

Over the years, I have put my own twist on the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, toppings, and crusts. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making Brie Pizza to the next generation. It has become a beloved dish in our household, a reminder of the joy and creativity that cooking can bring.

As I write this story, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for that day in Claire's kitchen. The warmth of the oven, the laughter of good friends, and the delicious smell of Brie Pizza baking in the oven. It is moments like these that remind me of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to inspire creativity in the kitchen.

So here it is, my recipe for Brie Pizza, a dish that holds a special place in my heart and in my kitchen. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it brings you as much joy and inspiration as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!