A simple homemade pizza recipe:
Ingredients:
For the pizza dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the pizza sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the toppings:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pizza dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the pizza sauce: In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions for two pizzas. Roll out each portion of dough into your desired thickness on a floured surface.
8. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.
9. Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings.
10. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
11. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
12. Repeat the process with the remaining portion of dough and toppings if making two pizzas.
13. Serve your homemade pizza hot and enjoy!
Feel free to customize your homemade pizza with your favorite toppings and cheeses. It's a fun and delicious way to make pizza at home!