What To Know
- Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it no longer sticks to your hands.
- Store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
The quest for the perfect pizza dough often leads to experimenting with alternative flours, and spelt flour has emerged as a promising contender. But does spelt flour truly deliver on its promise of a delectable pizza crust? Let’s delve into the intricacies of spelt flour and its suitability for pizza dough.
What is Spelt Flour?
Spelt, an ancient grain related to wheat, is prized for its nutty flavor and nutritional value. Spelt flour, made from grinding the entire spelt grain, retains the grain’s bran, germ, and endosperm, resulting in a flour rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins.
Benefits of Using Spelt Flour in Pizza Dough
- Enhanced Nutritional Value: Spelt flour boasts a higher nutritional profile than refined wheat flour, providing more fiber, protein, and vitamins. This makes spelt pizza dough a healthier alternative.
- Distinctive Flavor: The nutty flavor of spelt flour imparts a unique character to pizza dough, adding depth and complexity to the crust.
- Easier to Digest: The high fiber content in spelt flour slows down the absorption of carbohydrates, making it easier to digest than dough made with refined wheat flour.
Considerations for Using Spelt Flour in Pizza Dough
- Higher Absorption: Spelt flour absorbs more water than wheat flour, so it’s crucial to adjust the hydration levels accordingly.
- Longer Rising Time: Spelt dough requires a longer rising time compared to wheat dough due to its higher protein content. This allows the dough to develop more flavor and elasticity.
- Different Texture: Spelt pizza dough has a slightly denser and chewier texture than wheat pizza dough, which some may prefer.
How to Make Spelt Pizza Dough
1. Ingredients:
- 2 cups spelt flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- Olive oil for greasing
2. Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the spelt flour, yeast, and salt.
- Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking the Pizza Dough
- Shaping: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Divide the dough into two equal parts and stretch or roll them out into thin circles.
- Toppings: Add your desired pizza toppings.
- Baking: Bake the pizzas for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Troubleshooting Spelt Pizza Dough
- Dry Dough: If the dough is too dry, add a little more water 1 tablespoon at a time until it becomes pliable.
- Sticky Dough: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it no longer sticks to your hands.
- Underproofed Dough: If the dough does not rise properly, let it rise for a longer period or in a warmer place.
The Bottom Line: Embracing Spelt Flour’s Pizza Potential
While spelt flour may not be the traditional choice for pizza dough, it offers a unique blend of nutritional value, flavor, and texture. With proper adjustments to hydration levels and rising time, spelt flour can produce a delectable pizza crust that satisfies both taste buds and nutritional needs.
Basics You Wanted To Know
- Is spelt flour better than wheat flour for pizza dough?
Spelt flour has a higher nutritional value and a distinctive flavor, but the choice depends on personal preference.
- How can I make spelt pizza dough less chewy?
Reduce the rising time or use a higher hydration level.
- Can I substitute spelt flour for wheat flour in any pizza recipe?
Yes, but adjust the hydration levels and rising time accordingly.
- Is spelt pizza dough healthier than wheat pizza dough?
Yes, due to its higher fiber and protein content.
- How do I store spelt pizza dough?
Store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
