Blue potato, bacon and rosemary pizza represents the pinnacle of artisanal pizza crafting, combining unexpected ingredients to create a sophisticated yet comforting culinary experience. This striking creation showcases the natural beauty and earthy flavor of blue potatoes against the smoky richness of crispy bacon and the aromatic intensity of fresh rosemary. The visual impact alone makes this pizza a conversation starter, while the harmonious blend of flavors transforms a simple meal into a gourmet dining experience that rivals the finest pizzerias.
The Complete Blue Potato, Bacon and Rosemary Pizza Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Toppings:
- 1 pound blue potatoes, thinly sliced (⅛-inch thick)
- 8 oz thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Coarse sea salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Prepare the potatoes: Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice blue potatoes into uniform ⅛-inch rounds. Place in cold water to prevent browning. Pat completely dry before using.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat.
- Prepare for assembly: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating. Punch down risen dough and divide into 2 portions for individual pizzas or keep whole for one large pizza.
- Shape the dough: On a floured surface, roll or stretch dough into desired shape (12-14 inches for large pizza, 8-10 inches for individual). Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted pizza pan or parchment paper if using a pizza stone.
- Add toppings: Brush dough with reserved bacon fat mixed with minced garlic. Arrange potato slices in overlapping patterns, leaving small gaps for even cooking. Distribute torn mozzarella and crumbled goat cheese evenly. Add crispy bacon pieces and sliced red onions. Sprinkle with fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake: Transfer to oven (slide onto preheated stone if using) and bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and potatoes are tender. The cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned in spots.
- Finish and serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh rosemary and a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
Understanding Blue Potatoes
Blue potatoes, also known as purple potatoes, offer far more than just striking visual appeal. These distinctive tubers contain high levels of anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in blueberries and red wine, which give them their characteristic deep blue-purple color. Beyond their nutritional benefits, blue potatoes possess a slightly nutty, earthy flavor that’s more complex than traditional white potatoes.
Popular varieties include Purple Majesty, All Blue, and Purple Viking, each offering slightly different flavor profiles and intensities of color. When selecting blue potatoes, choose firm specimens with smooth skin and avoid any with soft spots or sprouting eyes. The skin is edible and adds both nutrition and visual interest to the finished pizza.
The natural sugars in blue potatoes caramelize beautifully during high-heat pizza baking, creating crispy edges while maintaining tender centers. This textural contrast adds another dimension to the eating experience.
Bacon Selection and Preparation
The bacon component requires careful consideration to achieve the perfect balance of smokiness and texture. Thick-cut bacon works best for this application, as it maintains its structure during the dual cooking process while providing substantial flavor. Artisanal bacon from local butchers or premium brands often offers superior flavor complexity compared to mass-produced alternatives.
Partially cooking the bacon before adding it to the pizza prevents it from becoming soggy while ensuring it reaches optimal crispiness during the final bake. The rendered bacon fat serves double duty, both flavoring the pizza base and helping to crisp the potato slices.
For those seeking alternatives, pancetta offers a similar richness with a slightly different flavor profile, while turkey bacon provides a leaner option that still delivers satisfying smokiness.
Fresh Rosemary Techniques
Fresh rosemary transforms this pizza from good to extraordinary, but proper handling ensures optimal results. Strip leaves from woody stems and chop coarsely to release aromatic oils without creating powder that might burn during baking. The herb’s piney, resinous qualities complement both the earthiness of blue potatoes and the richness of bacon beautifully.
For more intense flavor, create rosemary oil by gently heating olive oil with whole rosemary sprigs, then straining before use. This technique infuses the oil with herb essence while preventing the direct herb from burning at high temperatures.
Dried rosemary can substitute in a pinch, but use sparingly as its concentrated flavor can easily overwhelm other ingredients. Fresh rosemary’s brightness and complexity make it worth seeking out for this special pizza.
Cheese Combinations and Alternatives
The dual cheese approach creates both flavor complexity and textural interest. Fresh mozzarella provides mild creaminess and excellent melting properties, while goat cheese adds tangy richness that balances the bacon’s saltiness. The contrast between these two cheeses creates layers of flavor that unfold with each bite.
Alternative cheese combinations include fontina and gorgonzola for more assertive flavors, or ricotta and parmesan for lighter, more delicate results. Smoked mozzarella can enhance the bacon’s smokiness, while aged cheddar provides sharp contrast to the mild potatoes.
For vegan versions, cashew-based cheese alternatives work surprisingly well, though the flavor profile will shift significantly from the original concept.
Dough Techniques and Shortcuts
Homemade pizza dough provides superior flavor and texture, but quality store-bought alternatives can save time without significantly compromising results. When using commercial dough, allow it to come to room temperature before shaping to prevent tearing and ensure even thickness.
The key to exceptional pizza dough lies in proper gluten development through adequate kneading and sufficient rising time. Longer, slower rises in the refrigerator (up to 3 days) develop more complex flavors and improve texture.
For crispy crusts, pre-bake the shaped dough for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings. This technique prevents soggy centers while ensuring the crust can support the substantial toppings.
Assembly and Baking Tips
Proper assembly order ensures even cooking and prevents common pizza pitfalls. The garlic-bacon fat base provides flavor while creating a moisture barrier. Arranging potato slices in overlapping patterns ensures even coverage while allowing steam to escape, preventing soggy results.
Distribute cheeses evenly but avoid overloading, which can create uneven melting and greasy results. The bacon should be distributed last to prevent it from sinking into the cheese layer.
High oven temperatures are crucial for achieving the characteristic crispy crust and properly cooked toppings. Pizza stones or steel surfaces help achieve professional results by providing consistent, intense heat from below.
Serving and Presentation
This visually striking pizza deserves thoughtful presentation. Cut into wedges using a sharp pizza wheel or large knife, ensuring clean cuts that showcase the beautiful purple potato layers. Serve on wooden boards or dark plates that complement the pizza’s colors.
Pair with simple green salads dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or serve alongside roasted vegetables that echo the pizza’s rustic sophistication. Light to medium-bodied red wines or crisp white wines complement the complex flavors without overwhelming them.
Seasonal Variations and Adaptations
While delicious year-round, this pizza particularly shines during cooler months when hearty, comforting flavors are most appreciated. Summer variations might include fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, while winter versions could incorporate caramelized onions or roasted garlic for added warmth.
This blue potato, bacon and rosemary pizza represents the perfect marriage of rustic comfort and refined technique, proving that simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined and expertly prepared, can create truly memorable culinary experiences that satisfy both the eye and palate.
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