Prosciutto Pizza for the Win: A Must-Try Item on Every Italian Menu

Pizza comes in many varieties, always offering a new experience to many people, particularly when topped with prosciutto and mozzarella cheese. This is one of the characteristics and advantages of pizza because, in addition to being versatile, it never becomes boring. Among the various types of pizza, prosciutto pizza is one that you must try because it offers a unique taste that is different from usual pizza, but also provides considerable nutritional benefits. Therefore, get to know the unique prosciutto pizza that will give you a new experience!

What is Prosciutto Pizza?

Prosciutto pizza is a pizza that uses slices of prosciutto or the hind leg of a pig after the pizza dough is baked, so that it still maintains the fresh taste of the meat. It gives a meaty impression but is not too smoky, making it perfect to enjoy with a sprinkle of black pepper. With its versatile nature, it is very suitable to be combined with many interesting additional toppings!

For example, you can combine prosciutto pizza with mushrooms, arugula, figs, and even fresh basil. Additionally, one of the reasons it's so popular is the tender texture of the raw prosciutto slice, which melts in your mouth and adds a warm twist to the dough ball.

How Prosciutto is Made and Aged

To truly appreciate prosciutto pizza, it's important to understand how prosciutto is made. This process elevates the flavour and makes it an exceptional ingredient.

Selecting the Finest Ingredients

The reason behind the delicious dishes is the ingredients used. By using higher-quality, fresh ingredients and avoiding preservatives or chemicals, the resulting flavour will be richer and more tender. You can use finer cuts of pork for prosciutto and carefully trim it to achieve the best texture.

The Curing Process

The curing process plays a very important role because it enhances the meat flavour to prevent it from tasting bland. Use salt to coat the meat to provide the right amount of moisture. This process also preserves the prosciutto for a longer period, bringing out the natural flavours of the pork.

Ageing to Perfection

Prosciutto pizza has a unique characteristic, namely the aging process of the meat to give it the best texture when placed on top of the pizza. The length of time the prosciutto is aged will determine the final texture and flavour, which the right dough recipe can beautifully complement. With this aging process, the meat will acquire a rich and deep flavour, making the resulting taste better and more unique. Moreover, you will experience a combination of savoury and sweet flavours from the prosciutto.

Health Benefits of Prosciutto on Pizza

While prosciutto pizza is an indulgent treat, it can also offer certain health benefits when enjoyed in moderation!

Nutritional Benefits

Although many people assume that pizza is unhealthy fast food, it can be a healthy dish if consumed in moderation. Especially if you eat prosciutto pizza, which is a meat high in protein, contains vitamins such as B12, and provides zinc, which is very important for the health of the body. However, you also need to consider the additional ingredients in the pizza. Avoid pizza with excessive tomato sauce and cheese.

Health Considerations

Although prosciutto can be beneficial in small quantities, it is also high in sodium and fat. Therefore, the portion size of the pizza needs to be carefully considered, especially if you are on a diet. 

To enjoy prosciutto pizza sufficiently and adequately, try eating it with toppings such as fresh vegetables like mushrooms or arugula to achieve a good balance of nutritious ingredients and the richness of the meat.

Classic Prosciutto Pizza Combinations

Prosciutto pairs wonderfully with a variety of ingredients. Below are some of the most classic combinations that elevate the pizza experience.

Prosciutto and Mushroom

Mushrooms are the best topping for all types of pizza, including prosciutto pizza. Using mushrooms makes the overall texture softer and lighter, enhancing the homemade quality of the pizza. They add a savoury umami flavour that complements meat well.

Prosciutto and Arugula

Besides mushrooms, arugula or rocket can also provide a good balance when paired with meat for a variety of reasons. It provides a peppery flavour that enhances the richness of meat. Moreover,  arugula adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto.

Prosciutto and Fig

If you prefer sweet flavours over savoury ones, you can use figs on your prosciutto pizza. They add extra sweetness that gives it a unique flavour unlike any other topping, creating an enjoyable experience on a lightly floured tray. Using figs as a topping strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savoury.

Prosciutto Woodfired Pizza in Piccolino

At Piccolino, the woodfired prosciutto pizza is a standout menu item. The pizza features the finest prosciutto paired with a range of fresh, high-quality ingredients, including mozzarella, Napoli, rocket, and shaved grana! However, the woodfired pizza method from Piccolino Pizza enhances the experience, giving the prosciutto and other toppings a smoky finish that is unmatched by other cooking techniques.

The rich flavours of the prosciutto, combined with the perfect pizza crust and complementary toppings, make it a dish that is loved worldwide. If you're craving a slice of authentic Italian goodness, head to Piccolino and indulge in their woodfired prosciutto pizza. It's an experience you won't want to miss.

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