Southwest Bison Pizza | Great Range Bison
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What’s Up, Hungry People
This recipe was sponsored by Great Range Brand Bison.
I’ve been buying bison for years. In fact, whenever I see it at my local grocery, I usually buy as much as I can afford because of how delicious it is. Bison, the leaner and sweeter cousin to traditional beef, is not just a healthier choice but also packs a more robust flavor.
Delving into the realm of exotic meats, I’ve nurtured a particular fondness for the flavors of the Southwest, despite my never having ventured into mountain time. The West conjures images of cowboys and expansive herds of bison roaming the open ranges. For those in pursuit of the finest bison, I tend to lean towards Great Range Bison. With over three decades in the bison industry, their expertise in handling the USA’s first official mammal is unparalleled.
Given its lower fat content, bison cooks quicker than beef, a fact often overlooked. Many approach bison as if it were beef, not recognizing their distinct qualities. Beef, typically bland, relies heavily on herbs and spices, whereas bison’s natural sweetness requires far less adornment. A simple seasoning of paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes perfectly balances the meat’s inherent sweetness with a hint of spice, without overpowering it.
Here’s What You Need
- Ground Bison: The lean, sweet meat provides a healthier, flavorful alternative to beef.
- Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet flavor with a touch of warmth to the meat.
- Cumin: Earthy, nutty spice that complements the natural flavors of bison.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a spicy kick to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Chipotle Cheddar Cheese: Adds a smoky, spicy flavor that contrasts with the sweetness of the bison.
- Pizza Dough: The base for the pizza, offering a chewy texture when baked.
- Flour: Used for dusting surfaces to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Cornmeal: Provides the dough with a slight crunch and prevents sticking.
- Garlic Powder: Offers a robust, aromatic flavor to the buttery crust.
- Butter: Gives the crust a rich, golden finish and adds moisture.
- Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds a smoky, tangy layer to complement the bison.
- Shallot: Brings a mild, sweet flavor that enhances the overall savory notes.
- Cilantro: Fresh, citrusy herb used for topping and in the sour cream for a flavor boost.
- Corn: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch for texture contrast.
- Black Beans: Contribute earthy flavors and enhance the pizza’s nutritional profile.
- Red Peppers: Offer a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a pop of color.
- Sour Cream: The base for the cilantro lime topping, adding creaminess and tang.
- Lime: Adds freshness and acidity to balance the flavors of the topping.
Let’s Cook
Embracing true Southwest style, I crafted my pizza with fire-roasted tomatoes and corn, black beans, and red peppers. Opting for a spicy twist, I chose shredded chipotle cheddar over the usual mozzarella, albeit in a reduced quantity. The focus here is the bison, after all, so whatever cheese you select, moderation is key.
The addition of cilantro lime sour cream drizzled over the pizza introduces a tangy element that complements the bison’s sweetness and the spiciness of the cheese beautifully. This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about this sour cream – it’s a versatile topper that enhances a wide array of dishes. Allow the pizza to cool slightly after baking for both flavor enhancement and easier handling. A final drizzle of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro complete the masterpiece.
Perfecting Your Southwest Bison Pizza
- Preheat Your Stone: Always start with a hot pizza stone for a crispy crust. Placing a cold pizza on a hot stone also helps to avoid sticking and ensures an evenly cooked base.
- Bison Cooking Tips: Since bison is leaner than beef, it requires less cooking time to prevent it from becoming tough. Keep an eye on it and aim for a slightly pink center before removing it from the heat.
- Dough Thickness: Rolling your dough too thin or too thick can affect baking time and texture. Aim for a 1/4-1/8 inch thickness for the perfect balance between crispy and chewy.
- Layering Ingredients: Begin with a lighter application of toppings near the center to prevent a soggy pizza. Distribute toppings evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Check Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your pizza a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overcooking.
- Rest Before Cutting: Allowing your pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes it easier to slice.
- Cilantro Lime Sour Cream: Adjust the amount of lime juice according to your taste preference. The topping should be tangy but not overpowering.
After one bite, you’ll find yourself humming the classic tune about the bison’s home on the range, a testament to the dish’s ability to transport you to the heart of the Southwest.
I’m eager to hear about your favorite bison recipes or any other unconventional meats you think I should try. Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!
This post contains sponsored content.
A special thanks to Lone Peak Bison for sponsoring this delicious recipe.
Visit LonePeakBison.com for more information about cooking with bison and where you can find their products in a store near you.
Like Lone Peak Bison on Facebook!
Southwest Bison Pizza | Great Range Bison
Ingredients
FOR BISON PIZZA:
- 8 oz ground bison Great Range Brand
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup chipotle cheddar cheese
- 8 oz pizza dough
- 3 tablespoons flour for dusting
- 2 tablespoons corn meal for dusting
- 2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 5 tablespoon butter melted
- 6 tablespoons fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 shallot sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons cilantro for topping
- ½ cup corn
- ½ cup black beans
- ½ cup red bell pepper diced
FOR CILANTRO LIME SOUR CREAM:
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons cilantro
- 1 lime juiced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Preheat your pizza stone for one hour, if using. If not using a pizza stone, place a large cookie sheet in the center of the oven while it preheats.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground bison and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 5-10 minutes or until the bison is mostly browned with few pink spots remaining. Stir in the paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes, combining well, then remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the cooked bison with the chipotle cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then chill until ready to use.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, and roll out the pizza dough to 1/4-1/8 inch thickness. Spread some parchment paper on a wooden cutting board, ensuring it's large enough for the dough, and dust it with cornmeal. Place the rolled-out dough on the parchment paper.
- Melt the butter and mix in the garlic powder. Brush the dough with the garlic butter mixture, then transfer the dough on the parchment paper to the preheated pizza stone. Prebake for five minutes.
- After prebaking, when the dough has puffed but not browned, remove it from the oven. Spread the fire roasted tomatoes on top, leaving about a one-inch border for the crust. Add the bison and cheese mixture, and top with corn, black beans, red peppers, and sliced shallot. Brush any remaining garlic butter onto the crust.
- Return the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet, carefully sliding it off the parchment paper to ensure a crispy bottom. Bake for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- While the pizza bakes, whisk together the sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting. Drizzle with the cilantro lime sour cream, serve warm, and enjoy!