Keeping pizza crust from getting soggy from fresh tomatoes
Whenever I make a pizza with fresh tomatoes on it, the juice from the tomatoes turns the crust to mush.
I think I must be doing something wrong - do I need to pre-cook the tomatoes to get rid of excess juice? Or maybe pre-cook the crust instead?
Is there any way to keep pizza from getting soggy when using fresh tomatoes, or is this just a problem with using fresh tomatoes as toppings on pizza, and there is no way to prevent it?
Best Answer
Here are a few things that have worked for me:
- Brush oil on the dough before applying toppings. (Already suggested)
- Scoop out the seeds and guts and then dice your tomatoes instead of slicing. This should get rid of some of the moisture.
- Add cheese and then place tomatoes on top.
- Stretch your dough evenly and not too thin.
I usually don't precook tomatoes (sauce at least) because it ends up getting gummy since they get cooked twice.
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Quick Answer about "Keeping pizza crust from getting soggy from fresh tomatoes"
How do you keep tomatoes on pizza without getting soggy?
You could also place the tomato slices in a container with pieces of absorbent paper or towels between each layer. This helps to draw a good deal of the moisture out of the tomato before it even gets onto the pizza, thus reducing the amount of water that's released during baking.Do you put the tomatoes on the pizza before or after baking?
Your best bet is to oven dry your tomatoes a bit. This will remove some of the moisture which will mean no puddles on your pizza and more intense tomato flavor. Slice your tomatoes as you would like them, then put them on a baking sheet.Can I put fresh tomatoes on a pizza?
There's nothing like Homemade Pizza, especially when it is made with fresh tomatoes, leave it simple or add a couple of your favourite toppings, of course don't forget some shredded mozzarella cheese!How do you dry fresh tomatoes for pizza?
Dry in a dehydrator set at 140 F. Place tomatoes on drying trays cut-side-up. Dry for 10 to 18 hours. For best results, follow the manufacturer's directions.More answers regarding keeping pizza crust from getting soggy from fresh tomatoes
Answer 2
I always pre-cook my crust for 3-8 minutes, depending on whether it's thin crust or not. Works great for what you're describing but I prefer it even when not using fresh tomatoes, I like a slightly crispier crust. Never tried pre-cooking the tomatoes - you could squeeze them, maybe in a ricer, but you're going to lose some texture and a lot of flavor, I would guess.
Answer 3
Thin layer of olive oil on the crust before you add the sauce. Just drizzle on a little bit and then make sure it's evenly applied with a hand.
Answer 4
Whenever I use fresh tomatoes on pizza, I always put them on the pizza immediately after cooking the pizza. That way they stay recognizable as fresh tomatoes instead of just turning to mush.
Answer 5
I pre-cook the crust for 90 seconds (>=450 degrees F) on a pre-heated pizza stone. Problem solved!
Answer 6
I like to slice them about 1/4 inch thick and then drizzle with olive oil, fresh thyme, garlic, liberal salt and pepper. Bake on a sheet tray lined with parchment or silpat, until they start to release a lot of that juice, drain that juice off (save for other uses or sauce!). Then let cool before adding to pre-baked pizza (so they don't fall apart) with the other desired toppings. As long as the pizza doesn't take longer than 30-45 minutes they shouldn't brown too much, and you will get a more intense tomato flavor with your slices.
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