Tasty Garlic and Paprika Sticks: the secret to crispy potatoes on pizza.
If you’re looking for an original idea that combines the softness of a focaccia with the crispiness of oven-roasted potatoes, these garlic and paprika sticks are the ultimate answer.
Born in my “Treasure Chest of Good Taste” as a creative evolution of classic rustic potatoes, these pizza strips are not only seasoned, but literally covered with thin slices of potato that, during baking, become one with the leavened dough.
The true star is the combination of the thinly sliced potato’s texture and my special dressing: an emulsion of extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, sweet paprika and that bold touch of white wine vinegar.
When you bake these sticks, a little magic happens: the oven heat (I recommend setting it to 482°F for an optimal result) allows the potatoes to absorb the sauce, creating a golden, aromatic crust that contrasts divinely with the soft pizza base.
Making the garlic and paprika sticks is a smart way to bring something different to the table.
The elongated shape, reminiscent of typical artisanal focaccia tongues, makes them perfect to cut into strips and serve as an appetizer, savory snack or alongside a cheese board.
The “shingle” arrangement of the potatoes ensures that each bite is rich and flavorful, releasing that unmistakable aroma of paprika and garlic that will make anyone ask for seconds.
Also, it’s an extremely versatile recipe.
You can prepare the dough in advance and top it at the last moment.
The combination of simple, carefully chosen ingredients transforms a classic pairing (pizza and potatoes) into a gourmet experience accessible to everyone.
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity: the balance between the starch’s sweetness and the tang of the sauce makes these sticks irresistible.
Get ready to pull a specialty from the oven that will soon become a staple in your kitchen repertoire!
Calories about 845 per piece
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Rest time: 3 Hours
- Preparation time: 20 Minutes
- Cooking time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 3 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Electric oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients to make the Tasty Garlic and Paprika Sticks
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 2/3 tsp fresh brewer's yeast
- 2.40 cups type 0 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 bunch fresh parsley (or 1 1/2 tsp of dried parsley)
- 3 1/3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 6.35 oz mozzarella
Tools
- Baking pans
Preparation of the Tasty Garlic and Paprika Sticks
In a bowl, put the water and the yeast and let it dissolve, then add the flour and mix well. Meanwhile add the salt and the oil to complete the dough.
Work everything well until you obtain a soft dough ball.
Cover and let it rise for about 2 hours…..
….then take the dough, transfer it to a work surface and divide it into 3 parts to make 3 balls.
Let the balls rest for about 30 minutes, then shape tongues of dough and transfer them to a baking sheet of about 11.81 x 15.75 in where you will fit 2 along the longer side. Create a slightly thicker edge and let rest another 15 minutes.
Meanwhile prepare the potatoes and the little sauce.
In a small bowl put the oil, salt, parsley, paprika, oil and the crushed or grated garlic.
Peel the potatoes and wash them well, slice them thinly with a mandoline and put them in a bowl.
Combine the sauce with the sliced potatoes and mix them well, but above all gently, being careful not to break them.
Crumble the mozzarella over the pizza bases, then arrange the seasoned potato slices on top without leaving gaps.
Brush a little oil on the edges of the pizza before baking if you want a crispy crust.
Once dressed, let the pizzas rest another 10 minutes and in the meantime preheat the oven and bake them at 482°F for about 15 minutes, but adjust according to the power of your oven.
