Algerian Pizza with Spiced Meat

Pizza Algerienne is where North Africa meets Italy. On the southern shores of the Mediterranean, pizza gets a makeover with richly spiced ground meat, coriander, and cumin. It's fiery, aromatic, and filling—a perfect example of a global dish going local. The paprika-meat ragout reminds one of Lahmacun, but the addition of cheese and tomato sauce keeps it grounded in Italian tradition.
🕒 Prep Time 25 mins
🍳 Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 1 hr 40 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 510 kcal
🌍 Cuisine African

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Skillet for the ragout
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Allergen Information

⚠️ Wheat
⚠️ Milk

Instructions

1

Make the dough combining flour, water, yeast, and salt. Let it rise in a warm place for 60 minutes.

Tip: Patience is key: allow the gluten structure to strengthen so it can hold the gas bubbles.
2

Meanwhile, prepare the ragout: brown the meat in oil and add the spices. Cook until done but not dry.

Tip: Add spices (cumin, coriander) to the hot fat to bloom them and release their fat-soluble aromas.
3

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough and spread with tomato sauce.

Tip: Don't drown it in sauce; the meat ragout brings its own juices.
4

Sprinkle with cheese, then top with the spiced meat, onion rings, and pepper strips.

Tip: Placing cheese under the meat acts as a glue and protects the crust from getting soggy.
5

Bake for 12-15 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tip: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro provide a cooling contrast to the spiced meat.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use lamb?
Yes, please do! Lamb's distinct flavor matches the original recipe perfectly.
How spicy should it be?
It's up to you, but Harissa (North African chili paste) is a fantastic addition if you like heat.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 3/4 cup Water (plus 1 tbsp)
  • 1 tsp Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2/3 cup Tomato Sauce
  • 7 oz Ground Beef or Lamb
  • 1 whole Bell Pepper (sliced into strips)
  • 5 oz Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 whole Red Onion
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (or Cilantro)
  • 1 tsp Spice Mix (Cumin, Coriander, Paprika)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil