Maltese Anchovy Pizzette
Background and Description
The Maltese Anchovy Pizzette, known for its delightful blend of flavors, is a beloved mini pizza variant from Malta. Rich in history and heritage, these bite-sized delights carry a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite. Anchovies, a staple in Mediterranean cooking, add a burst of umami that beautifully complements the soft, fluffy base of the pizzette. In Malta, pizzette are commonly enjoyed as appetizers or snacks during festive occasions and gatherings. The tradition of baking these mini pizzas dates back centuries, and though the recipes have evolved, they still hold a cherished place in Maltese cuisine.
Ingredients
- Flour - 500g
- Active Dry Yeast - 2 teaspoons
- Sugar - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Warm Water - 300ml
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Anchovy Fillets - 8-10 fillets, chopped
- Tomato Sauce - 200ml
- Grated Cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino) - 100g
- Capers - 2 tablespoons, rinsed
- Dried Oregano - 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper - to taste
Preparation
Preparing the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast with the sugar and half of the warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the remaining water and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Making the Pizzette
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F). Divide the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Roll out each ball into a circle about 10cm in diameter.
Place each rolled-out dough circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on each circle.
Top the sauce with chopped anchovy fillets, a sprinkle of grated cheese, a few capers, and a dash of dried oregano. Season with black pepper to taste.
Cooking Process
Once all the pizzette are prepared, bake them in the preheated oven. Monitor the baking time to ensure the pizzette are cooked to perfection. They generally take about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully.
Remove the pizzette from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Enjoy
Maltese Anchovy Pizzette are best enjoyed warm, allowing the flavors to meld and complement each other beautifully. Serve them as an appetizer or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a glass of crisp white wine. These pizzette lend themselves perfectly to social gatherings, where sharing food creates a warm and convivial atmosphere.
Whether for a festive occasion or a casual get-together, these pizzette are sure to impress. Their umami-rich flavors and satisfying textures make them a favorite among both adults and children. Keep a few extra on hand as they disappear quickly!