Yumminess! 6 years later, this is still a favorite! I always get asked to make this!
In the pursuit of healthier eating habits, finding ways to enjoy our favorite comfort foods without the guilt has become a culinary quest. Low carb pizza is a game-changer, allowing us to savor the flavors we love while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. This article explores the creation of a delectable low carb pizza using a surprising ingredient: eggplant. By following this recipe, you can indulge in a pizza experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large eggplants | 3 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Tomato paste | 1/4 cup |
| Crushed tomatoes (14 oz can) | 1 |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chili flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1 1/2 cups |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Low Carb Pizza
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Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that it’s ready to roast the eggplant rounds to perfection.
- Prepare the Eggplant: Wash the eggplants thoroughly and cut them into rounds, each about 1/2 inch thick. This uniform thickness ensures even cooking.
- Score and Season: Lightly score the eggplant rounds with a sharp knife. This step helps the olive oil and seasoning to penetrate, enhancing the flavor. Brush each round with olive oil on both sides, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Eggplant: Arrange the eggplant rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly golden. Roasting is crucial as it softens the eggplant and reduces any bitterness.
Making the Tomato Sauce
- Heat the Olive Oil: While the eggplant is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Cook the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pot and fry for about 1 minute. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Add Crushed Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the oregano, garlic powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. A thick sauce ensures that it won’t make the eggplant rounds soggy.
Assembling the Low Carb Pizza
- Top the Eggplant Rounds: Once the eggplant rounds are roasted and the sauce is thickened, remove the eggplant from the oven. Top each round with a tablespoon of the homemade tomato sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each eggplant round. The gooey, melted cheese is what makes this low carb pizza irresistibly delicious.
- Bake Again: Return the topped eggplant rounds to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
