Fellow seafarers and pizza enthusiasts! Have you ever found yourself at anchor miles away from the city, with the sun setting, the waves gently rocking your boat, and a sudden, insatiable craving for a slice of cheesy, saucy goodness? Fear not, for I’ve embarked on a culinary voyage to bring you the ultimate guide to crafting Easy Pizza Onboard. With the trusty Betty Crocker Pizza Crust Mix, a compact Portable Countertop Pizza Oven, and the perfect pizza board, you’re all set to transform your galley into a floating pizzeria.
Cruising with the Right Gear
Easy Pizza Onboard: A Delicious Experience at Sea
Making Easy Pizza Onboard is not just about the ingredients; it’s about enjoying the process while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
First things first, let’s talk about equipment. Space on a boat is as precious as the last slice of pizza, so compact and multifunctional tools are a must. Enter the Davivy Portable Countertop Pizza Oven. This little marvel is designed for tight quarters, making it an ideal companion for nautical culinary adventures. Despite its small footprint, it heats up to a whopping 800°F, ensuring your pizza crust achieves that coveted crispy perfection. Plus, its portability means you can easily stow it away when not in use, preserving your precious deck space.
This Compact Pizza Oven is great for pizza nights! It heats up to 800℉, giving you a perfect, crispy crust in just minutes. The built-in thermometer and viewing window make it easy to monitor your pizza without opening the lid. Plus, it’s portable and has all the accessories you need to bake like a pro.
There are two alternatives that are smaller and less expensive, I haven’t tried them but they were recommended to me:
The Betty Crocker Countertop Pizza Maker is a versatile 1440-watt appliance that allows you to create delicious 12-inch homemade pizzas and a variety of other dishes, featuring a nonstick surface for easy cleaning.
The MasterChef Electric 12" Pizza Maker features a rotating non-stick plate that ensures evenly baked, crispy crusts, and its removable baking stone allows for easy cleanup, making it perfect for creating a variety of dishes like calzones, quesadillas, and more.
Let’s not forget the unsung hero of pizza-making: the pizza board. A sturdy, reliable surface is essential for prepping your dough and assembling your toppings. The Acacia Cutting Board with Handle is a top-notch choice. Its compact size fits snugly in your galley, and the handle makes for easy maneuvering. Additionally, acacia wood is durable and adds a touch of rustic charm to your galley.
This Pizza Board is a kitchen staple! The sturdy acacia wood design makes it perfect for slicing and serving, while its rustic finish adds charm to my countertop.
Charting the Course: Crafting the Perfect Crust
Easy Pizza Onboard: Your Go-To Guide for a Tasty Adventure
The foundation of any great pizza is the crust. While making dough from scratch on a boat can be challenging, the Betty Crocker Pizza Crust Mix comes to the rescue. This mix simplifies the process, requiring only hot water and a few minutes of your time.
With Easy Pizza Onboard, you’ll discover how simple it is to whip up your favourite pizza while enjoying the open waters.
Here’s how to start your pizza-making journey:
- Preparation: The compact pizza machine comes with a pizza stone and a deep-dish pizza pan. I like to add a spray of olive oil before flattening the dough.
- Mixing the Dough: Combine the Betty Crocker Pizza Crust Mix with 1/2 cup of hot water in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is moistened and forms a soft dough. Cover the bowl and let it stand for about 5 minutes. This brief rest makes the dough more pliable, making it easier to shape.
- Shaping the Crust: Plop your crust on the pizza machine stone or pan and shape it so the dough is even all the way around.
It couldn't be easier to make the perfect pizza crust. Just add warm water, wait five minutes and you are good to go. Great for dock parties or unexpected guests!
Navigating the Toppings
With your crust ready, it’s time to unleash your inner pizzaiolo. The beauty of making pizza on your boat is the freedom to customize it to your heart’s content. Here are some topping ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Classic Margherita: Spread a layer of tomato sauce, add fresh mozzarella slices, and top with basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. I love the single-can servings of pizza sauce from Bosa Groceries in Vancouver.
- Pepperoni Passion: Tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella, and a generous layer of pepperoni slices. For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes. I also throw shredded pizza and pepperoni slices in the freezer to always have some on hand.
- Veggie Delight: Tomato sauce, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. Top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of oregano. Canned mushrooms are a great option, and I also freeze sliced onions.
Remember, while it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, moderation is key. Overloading your pizza can lead to a soggy crust, and nobody wants a mutinous meal.
Firing Up the Oven
With your masterpiece assembled, it’s time to cook. Preheat your Portable Countertop Pizza Oven. Once it’s ready, carefully place your pizza inside. The high heat will work magic, melting the cheese to bubbly perfection and crisping up the crust. Keep a close eye on your pizza; it should be ready to devour in 10-15 minutes.
Creating Easy Pizza Onboard allows for endless customization, ensuring every bite is exactly how you like it.
Anchors Aweigh: Time to Feast
Once your pizza is cooked to golden perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. This brief pause allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Grab your pizza cutter (which comes with the Davivy Pizza Oven), divvy up the slices, and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Crafting pizza on your boat is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the joy of cooking with the serenity of the open water. With the right tools and a dash of creativity, you can turn your boat into a gourmet pizzeria, making every voyage a delicious adventure.
