Gluten free pizza: a guide to enjoy safe and delicious dining
Let’s face it: pizza is one of the most beloved foods worldwide. Its origins trace back to Italy, but this versatile dish has won hearts across the globe, becoming a staple in various culinary traditions. However, for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, indulging in good old pizza can be a challenge. The good news is that gluten free pizza options are becoming increasingly available, allowing everyone to enjoy this classic dish without worry.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of celiac-friendly pizza, share a fantastic gluten free pizza base recipe and provide tips on safely cooking it at home. And, for those who want an easier solution especially while on holiday, we’ll also highlight where to find gluten free pizza on the island of Rhodes.
Understanding gluten free pizza
Traditional pizza – as you probably know – is made with wheat flour, which contains gluten, a protein that gives the dough its elasticity and chewy texture. Gluten free pizza is crafted using alternative flours such as rice flour, corn flour, maybe with an addition of buckwheat or tapioca flour creating different gluten free blends. Although making it from scratch can be complicated at first, if you know the combination for a perfect flour mix and you stick to a great recipe, gluten free pizza can be just as delicious and satisfying as its gluten-containing counterpart.
You have no idea where to start? You’re in the right place: here’s a gluten free pizza recipe by Marinos Kosmas, the n° 1 Greek gluten free chef – and the person behind all of the products we sell in our café Rhodes Gluten Free.
Gluten free pizza base recipe by Marinos Kosmas
Creating a delicious pizza for celiacs starts with a great base. Marinos Kosmas, a renowned chef known for his expertise in gluten free cooking (he is celiac himself!), has perfected a recipe that ensures a crisp yet soft and flavorful crust. Here’s how you can make it at home.
Ingredients for 2 gluten free pizzas:
- 500 gr of gluten free flour mix for pizza
- 470 ml of warm water
- 12 gr of gluten free dry yeast
- 20 gr of sugar
- 10 gr of salt
- 25 gr of olive oil
- 1,5 gr of psyllium
Gluten free pizza recipe procedure:
- Preheat the oven: before starting the process, turn on the oven and warm it up to 170° C.
- Activate the yeast: in a bowl, mix the warm water with the yeast and the sugar, then leave the mixture in a warm environment for 20 to 30 minutes to activate the yeast.
- Mix the dry ingredients: put the gluten free flour, salt and psyllium in another bowl and mix them.
- Combine the mixtures: mix the ingredients pouring the liquid ones over the dry ones and stirring them little by little (you can use a machine or do it by hand). Then add the olive oil and continue to mix until the dough is smooth and without lumps.
- Let it rise: cover the bowl with plastic foil and leave it in a warm environment, ideally above the oven, so that it can rise properly.
- Create the pizzas: with the help of a spatula, divide the dough in half and place each part in one of two lightly greased pizza pans (of around 24 cm of diameter). Spread your hands with some flour mix and spread the dough evenly inside the pan, then let them sit for a few minutes until the gluten free pizza bases rise again.
- Pre-bake: bake the two crusts for about 18-20 minutes.
- Add toppings: remove the pizza bases from the oven, add your favorite gluten free toppings and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Enjoy your GF pizza!
Cooking celiac-safe pizza at home
If your kitchen isn’t completely gluten free – which happens in most households – here are some tips to prevent cross-contamination while preparing and cooking pizza.
- Clean thoroughly: clean all surfaces, utensils and hands thoroughly before preparing the dough for gluten free pizza.
- Separate equipment: use separate bowls, baking sheets, cutting boards and utensils for gluten free cooking.
- Store separately: keep gluten free ingredients stored separately from gluten-containing items to avoid any accidental mixing.
- Use parchment paper or aluminum: always use parchment paper to line baking sheets or pizza stones to avoid contact with gluten residues.
- Gluten free first: bake your gluten free pizza first, so that you know for sure that the oven is clean and no particles of regular flour will fly on your food due to the internal ventilation.
Ok, we know that this is a lot of information to keep up with – and maybe you’re not that good of a baker. Or perhaps you’re on holiday and you don’t want to or can’t cook! So what if you crave GF pizza? No problem, if you’re in Rhodes…
Finding gluten free pizza in Rhodes
For those visiting or living in Rhodes, finding a reliable source of gluten free pizza can be a game changer. At Rhodes Gluten Free, we offer two different gluten free pizzas crafted by Marinos Kosmas: the classic Margherita – with tomato sauce and cheese – and the Special – with an addition of bacon, mushrooms and bell peppers.
Our pizzas are prepared in a 100% gluten free environment, ensuring there’s no risk of cross-contamination. And they are delicious too, of course! Whether you’re craving a simple Margherita or something richer, we’ve got you covered – we wait for you in Sofokli Venizelou 3, Rhodes! With us, eating a well-made gluten free pizza from a dedicated gluten free kitchen is not just easier, it’s a delightful experience.
FAQs about gluten free pizza
Gluten free pizza isn’t necessarily healthier. It depends on the ingredients used. However, it is essential for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out. Alternatively, you can pre-bake the gluten free pizza base and then store it frozen.
Gluten free pizza can taste slightly different or have a different texture due to the alternative flours used but, when prepared well, it can be just as delicious.
Not necessarily. Many gluten free pizzas contain dairy in the cheese or other ingredients. Check the ingredients if you have dairy sensitivities.
Some restaurants in Rhodes may offer gluten free pizza, but it’s best to inquire about their preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination – most of them cannot guarantee its absence. Rhodes Gluten Free is the only 100% guaranteed safe option in town.