How to Make Utica Tomato Pie

Embark on a culinary journey to Central New York with this savory delight: Utica tomato pie. A local favorite, Utica tomato pie stands apart from traditional pizza, boasting a unique flavor profile and serving style. Unlike its hot-out-of-the-oven counterpart, Utica tomato pie is enjoyed at room temperature, making it an ideal snack for any occasion. With a chewy yet slightly crunchy crust, topped with chunky tomato sauce and a sprinkle of grated cheese, this recipe captures the essence of Utica’s iconic dish. Now, with simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can recreate this beloved treat in your own kitchen.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients:
For the tomato sauce:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 cups (1 16-ounce can) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

For the pie:

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup hot water
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Parchment paper
• Cornmeal
• 1-1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Optional:

• Pre-made pizza dough (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

Tomato sauce:

1. In a large saucepan over low heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, about two minutes.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally.
3. Simmer on low heat for approximately 30 minutes, then remove from heat.

Tomato Pie:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Coat a half-sheet pan with cornmeal.
2. In a bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and hot water. Let stand until foamy, about 10 minutes.
3. Add most of the flour, olive oil, and salt to the bowl. Mix until the dough starts to release from the bowl.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
5. Shape the dough into a round, coat with oil, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
6. Gently press the risen dough into the prepared pan until it reaches the rim.
7. Coat the dough with oil, then use a fork to prick the surface.
8. Let the dough rise in a warm place for another hour.
9. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is cooked through.
10. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Serve:
Enjoy Utica tomato pie warm or at room temperature as a delightful snack or appetizer.

Nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 10g