PIZZA : Homemade Delicious Recipe

Here’s a classic pizza recipe that you can customize to your liking!

Homemade Pizza Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes

Toppings (suggestions):

• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices
• Sliced bell peppers
• Sliced mushrooms
• Olives
• Fresh basil
• Any other toppings you enjoy!

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and simmer for about 15-20 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

Assembling the Pizza:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), or if you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions (for two pizzas).
3. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a layer of pizza sauce on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
6. Add your preferred toppings.

Baking:

1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade pizza! Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sauces to make it your own!