Lamb Pizza

SPONGE: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the lukewarm water. Stir in the flour and let stand in a warm place until bubbly, about 5 minutes.

DOUGH: In an electric stand mixer, place the flour in the bowl of a mixer and add the sponge, salt, olive oil and lukewarm water. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed to combine. Then attach the dough hook and beat on medium speed until the dough is smooth, elastic and pulls cleanly from the bowl sides, 5-6 minutes.

To make the dough by hand, place the flour in a large bowl and add the sponge, salt, olive oil and lukewarm water. Stir until a soft dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes.

Shape the dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl and turn to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled, 45-60 minutes.

LAMB TOPPING: In a large saute pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion and saute until tender, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and lamb, raise the heat to high and saute until it begins to brown, 5-8 minutes. Add the tomatoes, chilies (if using), allspice and cinnamon and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes. The mixture should be very thick. Stir in half of the parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let cool.

Meanwhile, turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knead briefly. Divide into equal portions and form each portion into a ball. Place the balls on the work surface, cover with a kitchen towel and let rest for 30 minutes.

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pine nuts in a small pan and toast in the oven until fragrant, 6-8 minutes. Let cool.

Raise the oven temperature to 500 degrees F. Roll out each ball of dough into a round 6 inches in diameter. Place the rounds spaced well apart on baking sheets. Brush lightly with olive oil and then divide the topping evenly among them, leaving a 1/2-inch border uncovered. Sprinkle evenly with the pine nuts.

Bake until the crust is golden, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining parsley and the mint and serve hot.