Beet ‘Pepperoni’ Pizza

Who ever knew that beets could make the perfect substitute for pepperoni?

When you think about it, they're the perfect shape and size! Beets are marinated in a smoky, spicy sauce and then fried until crispy. They go perfectly with the crust and tomato sauce in the recipe, but feel free to use your favorites — after all, pizza is a personal affair.

Beet ‘Pepperoni’ Pizza [Vegan]

Ingredients

For the Beet Pepperoni:

• 1 beet
• 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon hot pepper powder
• Some dried chilis
• A pinch of salt

For the Crust:

• 1/3 cup of hot water, plus more as needed
• A pinch of sugar
• 3 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons semolina
• 2 1/3 cups bread flour
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 7 tablespoons tomato sauce
• 1 heaping tablespoon dried oregano
• A pinch of salt
• 2 cloves of garlic or 1 teaspoon dried granulated garlic

For the Toppings:

• Vegan cheese of choice
• Beet pepperoni
• Nutritional yeast

Preparation

1. Wash and peel the beet. Using a mandoline, cut into thin, round slices. In a bowl, mix together other ingredient. Add beet and ensure that all slices are covered. Store in a cool place for 12 hours and rinse thoroughly afterwards.
2. Transfer beets to a skillet or grill pan and cook into a little crisp. In a separate bowl, mix together ingredients for the sauce.
3. Add hot water to a bowl, then add yeast and sugar and stir until ingredients dissolve. Add semolina, stir, and let sit for 15 minutes in a warm place.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing the dough with one hand and adding flour with the other. When the dough starts to come away from the bowl, add a little olive oil and stir to combine.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead, stretch, and punch or down. The dough should be soft and elastic.
6. Preheat oven to 480°F (it needs to be hot). Prepare a baking sheet or baking stone by sprinkling with flour. Try to stretch the dough so it covers the surface. Spread sauce over the dough, followed by vegan cheese, beets, and any other toppings.
7. Bake for about 5-7 minutes.

https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/beet-pepperoni-pizza/