Delicious food

Pizza – A classic Italian dish with a crispy crust, savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, and endless topping options like pepperoni, mushrooms, or fresh vegetables.

 

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional toppings: Pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, fresh basil, etc.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions (for two pizzas) or keep it whole for one large pizza.
3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 12 inches for a standard pizza).
4. Transfer the dough to a parchment paper or pizza peel if using a stone.
5. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add any additional toppings you like (pepperoni, mushrooms, etc.).
7. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake the Pizza:

1. Carefully transfer the pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Remove the pizza from the oven, and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.

5. Enjoy:

• Slice and serve your homemade pizza! You can top it with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Tips:

• For a crispier crust: Preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet to get a crispier base.
• Dough storage: If you're not using all the dough at once, you can refrieigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze it for later use.
• Toppings: Get creative! Try different cheeses (like cheddar or gouda), vegetables, or even pineapple for a tropical twist.

Enjoy making and devouring your delicious homemade pizza