There’s nothing quite like a homemade pizza straight from the oven. Combining fresh ingredients melted cheese, and a perfectly crisp crust creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. With time and effort, you can prepare an excellent pizza in the comfort of your home. Follow this recipe to enjoy a homemade pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Your choice of toppings (e.g., sliced bell peppers, sliced onions, sliced mushrooms, pepperoni, olives)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough
Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, integrate the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour the yeast mixture and olive oil. Blend the ingredients together until a dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball.
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough ball in a not too much oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours until it doubles.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually around 500°F/260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats to ensure an extra-crispy crust.
Shape and Top the Pizza
Punch it down once the dough has risen to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza peel lined with parchment paper.
Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add your desired toppings, such as sliced mozzarella cheese, and your favorite vegetables or meats.
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated cookstove (on the baking sheet or pizza peel). Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crust is well coocked and the cheese is dissolved and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pizza from the cookstove and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into wedges and serve it hot. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Now you can enjoy a delicious homemade pizza with your favorite toppings at home. Customize it to your preferences, experiment with different flavors, and share the joy of a homemade pizza with family and friends. Bon appétit!
