St. Louis may be known for its deep-dish delights, but the vegan pizza scene is heating up! Finding a delicious vegan pizza in St. Louis is easier than ever, whether you’re craving classic comfort or gourmet creations. This guide will showcase the top spots for vegan pizza in St. Louis and arm you with all the tips and tricks to craft your own drool-worthy vegan pizza masterpiece at home.
Why Vegan Pizza?
Vegan pizza swaps traditional dairy cheese for plant-based alternatives without sacrificing flavor. This means you can enjoy the same cheesy, satisfying experience while enjoying the many benefits of a vegan diet!
Assortment of Vegan Pizzas in St. Louis
Essential Ingredients for Delicious Vegan Pizza
1. The Perfect Crust:
- Store-bought dough: Look for pre-made pizza dough made without dairy or eggs.
- Homemade dough: Making your own vegan pizza dough is surprisingly simple! Check out our easy recipe below.
- Pre-baked crusts: This is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
2. Flavorful Sauce:
- Classic marinara: You can’t go wrong with a simple and flavorful tomato sauce.
- White garlic sauce: Creamy and savory, white garlic sauce is a delicious alternative to marinara.
- Pesto: This vibrant sauce adds a burst of freshness.
3. Vegan Cheese, Please!
- Cashew cheese: Known for its creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Almond cheese: Often provides a slightly sharper, more “cheesy” flavor.
- Store-bought vegan cheese: Many brands offer delicious shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and even specialty cheese alternatives.
4. Creative Toppings:
- Veggies: Load up on flavor with your favorite veggies – roasted red peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, artichoke hearts, and olives are all excellent choices!
- Plant-based proteins: Elevate your pizza with plant-based meats like sausage, pepperoni, or “chicken.”
- Fresh herbs: Add a final touch of freshness and flavor with basil, oregano, or parsley.
Colorful Array of Vegan Pizza Toppings
Crafting Your Vegan Pizza Masterpiece
1. Prepare the Dough
- If using pre-made dough, allow it to come to room temperature before stretching.
- Lightly flour your work surface and stretch the dough into your desired shape and thickness.
- Prick the dough with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
2. Sauce It Up!
- Spread your chosen sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
3. Cheese, Please!
- Sprinkle on your vegan cheese, ensuring even coverage.
4. Time for Toppings!
- Get creative with your favorite veggies, plant-based proteins, and herbs.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings.
Vegan Pizza Baking in the Oven
Exploring Vegan Pizza in St. Louis
Here are a few top spots to get you started:
- [Name of Restaurant]: Known for their [Mention signature vegan pizza or unique selling point]
- [Name of Restaurant]: Offers a dedicated vegan menu with a variety of creative pies.
- [Name of Restaurant]: Features build-your-own options with an array of vegan cheeses and toppings.
Pro Tip: Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. Don’t hesitate to ask about vegan cheese and topping options even if they aren’t specifically listed on the menu.
Vegan Pizza: Beyond the Basics
Making Your Own Vegan Pizza Dough
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let stand for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
- Stir in the olive oil and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, kneading until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it in half.
- Roll out each half into a circle or rectangle, and it’s ready for your favorite toppings!
Kneading Homemade Vegan Pizza Dough
Exploring Flavor Combinations
- Mediterranean Delight: Pesto sauce, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and vegan feta cheese.
- Spicy Hawaiian: Marinara sauce, vegan mozzarella, pineapple chunks, jalapeños, and red onion.
- Buffalo Chickpea: White garlic sauce, buffalo-sauced chickpeas, vegan ranch, red onion, and a sprinkle of vegan blue cheese crumbles.
FAQ: Your Vegan Pizza Questions Answered
1. What type of flour is best for vegan pizza dough?
All-purpose flour works great, but you can also use bread flour for a chewier crust or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
2. Can I freeze vegan pizza dough?
Absolutely! After the initial rise, punch down the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
3. How can I make my vegan pizza crust extra crispy?
Pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. You can also bake the pizza on a pizza stone or directly on the oven rack for added crispiness.
4. What are some alternatives to vegan cheese?
If you’re not a fan of vegan cheese or want to try something different, you can use a creamy cashew sauce, hummus, or even thin slices of avocado.
5. What are some tips for reheating vegan pizza?
Reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help maintain the texture of the crust and prevent the toppings from becoming soggy.
6. Can I adjust the toppings to my liking?
Of course! The beauty of pizza is that it’s incredibly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to create your perfect pie.
7. What are some other vegan dishes that pair well with pizza?
Vegan Caesar salad, garlic knots, and breadsticks are all classic pairings. You could also serve your pizza with a side of marinara or vegan ranch for dipping.
Vegan pizza in St. Louis is more than just a trend; it’s a delicious and compassionate way to enjoy a classic dish. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant vegan dining scene or getting creative in your kitchen, there’s a perfect slice of vegan pizza waiting for you.
