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Pizza al Forno with Mushrooms, Gorgonzola, and Radicchio

This pizza could be named Umami Pizza because it features the earthy flavors of mushrooms and Gorgonzola cheese. The radicchio provides a slightly bitter flavor for contrast and adds color. Sautéing the mushrooms and garlic in the wood-fired oven adds an additional layer of flavor.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes 4 individual pizzas

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing and drizzling
1 pound cremini or white mushrooms, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 head red radicchio, cored and cut into 1-inch wedges
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or Saba
Basic Pizza Dough (page 33)
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
12 ounces Gorgonzola or other blue cheese, crumbled

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Prepare a very hot fire (650° to 700°F) in a wood-fired oven or cooker.

    Step 2

    In a cast-iron skillet or heat-resistant baking dish, heat the 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat and sauté the mushrooms for 5 minutes, then add the garlic and sauté for another 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

    Step 3

    In a medium-sized bowl, toss the radicchio with the balsamic vinegar.

    Step 4

    Flour a baking peel and shape each dough ball into a 10-inch round on the peel. Brush with olive oil, being careful not to get oil on the peel. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Leaving a 1/2-inch border of crust, top with the mushrooms, then the radicchio, thyme, and Gorgonzola. Drizzle with olive oil (including the edges) and sprinkle again with sea salt.

    Step 5

    Slide the pizzas off the peel and onto the oven floor. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, rotating once, or until golden on the edges and the cheese is melted. Let cool for 5 minutes, then cut into wedges and serve.

Reprinted with permission from Wood-Fired Cooking: Techniques and Recipes for the Grill, Backyard Oven, Fireplace, and Campfire by Mary Karlin, copyright © 2009. Photography copyright © 2009 by Ed Anderson. Published by Ten Speed Press.
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