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Air Fryer Calzones: A Culinary Delight Made Easy

Calzones, the delectable Italian stuffed pockets often compared to pizzas, have a unique twist that makes them an irresistible choice for dinner or a snack. While traditionally baked in the oven, the advent of the air fryer has revolutionised how we cook these delicious treats. By utilising the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly golden, crispy calzones with significantly less oil and time. Here’s a simple guide to making scrumptious air fryer calzones that are sure to please both your palate and your guests.

What is a Calzone?

A calzone is a folded pizza dough filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, and vegetables. The origins of the calzone can be traced back to Naples, Italy, where it was originally created as a way to transport pizza fillings more conveniently. Today, calzones can be found in various forms, with each region adding its own twist.

Ingredients

To make air fryer calzones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dough:

• 250g of strong plain flour
• 7g of dried yeast
• 150ml of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Filling (customisable to taste):

• 150g of mozzarella cheese, grated
• 100g of ricotta cheese
• 100g of pepperoni or salami (or any protein of your choice)
• A handful of fresh spinach or other vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers)
• Dried oregano and basil, to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For serving:

• Marinara sauce or garlic dip

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Dough:

• In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dried yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
• In a separate mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour along with the olive oil.
• Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• While the dough is rising, mix together the mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni, and any additional vegetables in a bowl. Season with dried herbs, salt, and pepper.

3. Shape the Calzones:

• Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions (about 4-6, depending on your desired size).
• Roll each portion out into a circle on a floured surface, about 15 cm in diameter.
• Spoon the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a border around the edge. Fold the other half over the filling and crimp the edges tightly to seal.

4. Air Fry the Calzones:

• Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (around 356°F).
• Lightly brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil and, if desired, sprinkle with a pinch of salt or dried herbs.
• Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

• Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
• Pair them with a side of marinara sauce or garlic dip for an extra layer of flavour.

Conclusion

Making air fryer calzones is not only an easy process but also a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. By using the air fryer, you can achieve a delightful crispiness without the need for excessive oil, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to make each calzone unique. With this simple recipe, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a calzone aficionado in no time! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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