Pizza is certainly one of the favorite meals of people around the world. But, we all know that this is not quite a healthy option and pizza is classed as junk food since it is known to cause upset stomach and heartburn.
The good news is, you can still enjoy your pizza, this time in a healthy way. All you need to do is use cauliflower instead of wheat when making the crust and keep the dairy to a minimum.
The Benefits of a Cauliflower Crust
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable which means it is high in anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting compounds such as sulforapane.
These compounds can protect you from colon, lung, breast, liver, cervical and prostate cancer due to their ability to destroy cancer cells and prevent tumor migration.
Furthermore, this vegetable is an excellent source of vitamin C, B6, K, and folate. Also, it is rich in panthothenic acid, manganese, potassium and riboflavin.
Cauliflower is essential food for pregnant women since it is able to alter the structure and function of hippocampal pyramidal cells in the foetal brain to improve cognitive function and boost learning and memory.
Moreover, cauliflower is known to regulate the bacteria in the gut, preventing bacterial overgrowth and improving digestion.
Chia seeds are an excellent energy booster and great source of proteins. They are loaded with iron, calcium, fiber, magnesium, and omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Chia seeds are high in tryptophan which helps you control your appetite, as well as in phosphorus which stimulates cell regeneration.
Regular consumption of chia seeds can normalize your blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, control blood sugar levels, and prevent insulin resistance.
Cauliflower Pizza Crust
This easy crust recipe is gluten-free and vegan.
Ingredients:
1 Large head of organic Cauliflower
3/4 cup of ground almonds
1 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano
Himalayan salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chia seeds
3/4 cup water
Method:
Preheat the oven to 400F. Wash your cauliflower carefully or soak it in a cleaning solution to eliminate dirt, bacteria, and pesticides. Measure out your seeds and wash them with a fine-mesh strainer. Soak the chia seeds in water and keep the mixture in the fridge for 20 minutes before use. Wash the cauliflower and pat it dry. Then, chop it in medium-sized chunks and mix in a blender until you obtain fine rice-like texture. Measure 3 cups of the cauliflower and place it in a large bowl. Add the seasoning and almonds and mix until combined. Make a hole in the center of the mixture and add the soaked chia seeds. Mix the dough and shape it into a ball using your hands. You should know that the dough will be more sticky and less firm than the traditional dough. Put the dough in previously well-oiled baking pan press it down to cover the entire pan, leaving a ridge around the rim. Bake for 25 minutes or until it becomes golden brown. Add tomato sauce and pizza toppings. Bake for 5-10 minutes. Allow it to cool and enjoy.
Source: dailyhealthpost.com
