Plant-Based Lahmacun-Inspired Pizza

With Dill, Cherry Tomato, Sesame Crust & Calabrian Chili Heat

Serves: 2–4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–35 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Best For: Weeknight dinner with bold flavor and no meat required

Ingredients

For the Topping

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• ½ small red onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced (plus more for garnish)

• 2 packs Beyond Meat (or other plant-based ground)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Dough & Crust

• 1 ball pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the pan)

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• 1 egg, beaten (optional, for egg-washing crust)

To Finish

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Extra fresh dill and chopped cherry tomatoes

• Calabrian chili paste or oil, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Meat Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, dill, Beyond Meat, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or clean hands to mash everything together until fully mixed. You want a thick, flavorful mixture that spreads easily across the dough.

2. Prep the Cast Iron

Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).

Coat a 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet generously with olive oil. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the bottom and sides of the pan so they stick in a single layer—this creates a nutty, golden crust.

Stretch the pizza dough into the pan. Let it rest a few minutes if needed to relax, then stretch again until it reaches the edges. Brush the edges with egg wash if using.

3. Assemble & Bake

Spread the meat mixture evenly over the dough, edge to edge. Bake for 25–30 minutes, checking after 20. The crust should be golden and crisp, and the topping slightly browned.

4. Finish While Hot

Once out of the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice and scatter extra chopped cherry tomatoes and dill on top. Add Calabrian chili paste or oil to taste.

Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Chef’s Notes

• Freshness Tip: Use the ripest cherry tomatoes you can find—sweet and juicy is the goal.

• Optional Touches: Add a sprinkle of sumac or Aleppo pepper to the meat mix for more dimension.

• Serve With: A tangy cucumber salad or just a cold glass of something crisp.