Description
This irresistible sourdough calzone recipe combines a tangy, chewy sourdough crust with gooey mozzarella cheese and your favorite savory toppings. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, these calzones make a delicious homemade meal that your family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (brings a delightful tanginess)
- 4 cups flour (provides the perfect structure)
- 1 1/2 cups water (adjust as needed for dough consistency)
- 2 teaspoons salt (enhances flavor and strengthens the dough)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (gives the dough richness and aids in browning)
Filling
- 1/4 cup sauce (favorite marinara or pesto)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (ensures a gooey center)
- Favorite toppings (customize with ingredients you love)
Topping
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to brush on top for color and flavor)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, water, salt, and olive oil. Stir gently until the mixture forms a cohesive dough that feels slightly tacky to the touch.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours depending on room temperature.
- Shape the dough: Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface using a rolling pin to create an even layer. Cut out circles about 6-8 inches in diameter for individual calzones.
- Fill the calzones: Spoon sauce onto one half of each dough circle. Add a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings, being careful not to overfill.
- Seal the calzones: Fold the other half of the dough circle over the filling to enclose it. Pinch the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to ensure they stay sealed during baking.
- Prepare for baking: Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil to give them a beautiful sheen and help them brown evenly.
- Bake: Place the calzones on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Notes
- Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best results.
- Adjust water quantity slightly if the dough feels too dry or too sticky.
- You can customize fillings with vegetables, cooked meats, or herbs as preferred.
- To ensure a crispier crust, bake the calzones on a preheated pizza stone if available.
- Leftover calzones can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
