Family Pizza

Family Pizza: A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of a fresh, steaming pizza that spreads joy in any home? This family pizza recipe is not only simple and quick, but also full of flavor and beautiful memories, making it perfect for evenings spent with loved ones. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a real pizzeria, without leaving the comfort of your home!

Total preparation time: 1 hour (30 minutes for ingredient preparation + 30-40 minutes for baking)
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 200 g flour (preferably type 00 flour for a fine texture)
- ½ cube of fresh yeast (approximately 21 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 glass of lukewarm water (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 onion (sliced thinly)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 tomato (sliced)
- Mushrooms (sliced, fresh or canned)
- 100 g ham (sliced thin)
- 100 g mozzarella (cubed)
- 50 g cheese (grated)
- 1 glass of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Preparing the Dough:
1. Start by mixing the yeast with lukewarm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy and airy dough.

2. In the meantime, sift the flour into a large bowl. Add the dissolved yeast and salt, mixing with a spoon or your hands until the ingredients combine.

3. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in volume. This is the perfect time to think about your favorite topping ingredients.

4. Once the dough has risen, add 2-3 tablespoons of flour, mixing until you achieve a very soft dough. Don’t worry if the dough is sticky; it will become easier to handle as it is kneaded.

5. On a floured surface, stretch the dough with your hands, forming a round or rectangular shape, depending on the tray you are using. Make sure the dough has an even thickness for even baking.

Preparing the Toppings:
1. Spread the dough with the tomato sauce mixed with a teaspoon of thyme and one of oregano. This aromatic sauce will be the perfect base for your pizza.

2. Place the toppings on top of the sauce: onion rings, chopped bell pepper, tomatoes, and mushrooms. Then, add the slices of ham, cubed mozzarella, and grated cheese for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other ingredients like olives, corn, or even pineapple for a tropical twist.

Baking the Pizza:
1. Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180-200°C). It is important for the oven to be well heated so that the pizza bakes evenly and becomes crispy.

2. Place the pizza in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges turn golden and crispy, and the cheese melts and becomes slightly browned.

3. Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it. This will help the cheese stabilize a bit, making it easier to cut.

Serving Suggestions:
Your family pizza can be served warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a portion of spicy tomato sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Also, a bottle of white wine or a cold beer will perfectly complement the dish.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a crispier pizza, you can use a pizza stone or a cast iron pan. These retain heat and help achieve a perfectly crispy crust.
- You can try various types of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, to add a different taste and texture to the dough.
- If you have leftover tomato sauce, you can use it to make pasta or a sauce for other dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with 7 g of dry yeast, which should be added directly to the flour.

2. How can I store pizza for the next day?
Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I add vegan ingredients?
Absolutely! You can replace ham with tofu or sautéed vegetables and mozzarella with vegan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:
This family pizza is not only delicious but also a healthier option than store-bought ones, as you can control the ingredients. Whole wheat flour provides fiber, and fresh vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, making this family pizza is not just a culinary activity but a way to create memories with loved ones. Whether you serve it at a special dinner or on an ordinary evening, it will bring smiles and satisfaction in every slice. Experiment, customize, and enjoy every bite!