First things first, let’s start with the dough. To make the perfect calzone, you need to have a soft, elastic, and flavorful dough. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of yeast, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Slowly add warm water and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, let’s work on the filling. The great thing about calzones is that you can get creative and use any ingredients you like. You can go for the classic combination of mozzarella , marinara sauce, and pepperoni, or you can mix it up with vegetables, different meats, or even seafood. Sauté some onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian option, or cook up some sausage and bacon for a meat lover’s delight. The possibilities are endless.
Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into smaller portions, depending on how big you want your calzones to be. Roll out each piece of dough into a circular shape, about ⅛ inch thick. Make sure not to roll it out too thin, as it might tear when you fold it later.
Now comes the fun part – assembling the calzones. Take one circle of dough and place your desired filling on one half of it, leaving a small border around the edges. Be careful not to overload it with too much filling, as it might burst open during baking. Fold the uncovered half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal it. You can either crimp the edges with a fork or fold them over and tuck them underneath to create a beautiful braided crust.
Once all your calzones are assembled, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil or beaten egg for a nice golden brown color. Cut a small slit on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
Bake the calzones in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crusty. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be piping hot.
Calzones are perfect for any meal – whether it’s a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a party snack. You can serve them with a side of marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping. They also make great leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
In conclusion, making a calzone from scratch is not as daunting as it may seem. With a simple dough recipe and your favorite fillings, you can create a delicious homemade calzone that will rival any restaurant version. So get creative, have fun, and enjoy the delightful flavors of a freshly baked calzone. Buon appetito!