Ingredients:
Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings:
– 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
– 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (or ground beef, carnitas, or roasted vegetables for alternatives)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Prepare toppings: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño, and cook until tender. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Assemble pizza: Punch down the dough and divide into 2-4 portions, depending on desired pizza size. Roll out each portion into a thin circle. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread refried beans over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with shredded cheese, cooked chicken (or alternative), and sautéed onion mixture.
5. Bake pizza: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Add optional toppings: Remove from oven and top with desired optional toppings.
7. Serve and enjoy: Slice and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
– Use leftover roasted chicken or beef for added flavor.
– Add diced ham or cooked sausage for extra protein.
– Substitute diced tomatoes for fresh salsa.
– Use different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese.
– Experiment with various spices, such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.