Homemade pizza

Homemade Pizza - A Delicacy at Home

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, symbolizing conviviality and the joy of eating together. From the fluffy dough to the delicious toppings, each pizza can be a culinary masterpiece. In this recipe, I will show you how to make three large pizzas, each 35 cm in diameter, that will impress both family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started!

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 3 large pizzas

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 450 g flour (preferably type 000 or special pizza flour)
- 225 ml lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 20 g fresh yeast

For the sauce:
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (400 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 100 ml water

For the toppings:
- 3 small red onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 300 g fresh mushrooms
- 15-20 slices of cold cuts (salami, prosciutto, or any you prefer)
- 15-20 pitted olives
- 10-12 slices of cheese or 150 g grated cheese
- 150 g hard cheese or mozzarella
- 3 eggs (optional)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast). Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If you have a bread machine, add the yeast-water mixture, oil, salt, and flour to the machine's bowl. Set the kneading program (about 15 minutes). After kneading, let the dough rise in the machine for 15 minutes.

If you don’t have a bread machine, pour the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the yeast-water mixture, oil, and salt. Knead by hand until you achieve a smooth dough. Gradually add the oil while continuing to knead. When the dough becomes elastic and smooth, let it rise in a warm place for 25-30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

2. Preparing the Sauce
In a small pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a crushed garlic clove. Heat over medium heat until the garlic turns golden, then remove it. Use an immersion blender to puree the peeled tomatoes along with the second garlic clove, pepper, thyme, rosemary, basil, sugar, and salt. Pour the mixture into the pot with oil, add 100 ml of water, and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

3. Preparing the Toppings
While the sauce is simmering, prepare the toppings. Slice the mushrooms into medium-sized pieces and sauté them in a pan with 1-2 tablespoons of oil until golden. Slice the onions and bell pepper into thin rounds, and you can either grate or slice the cheese. Don’t forget to pit the olives for better flavor.

4. Shaping and Baking the Pizza
Once the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts and form balls, letting them rest for another 15 minutes. Roll each dough ball with your hands or a rolling pin to about 35 cm in size. Place the dough in oiled pizza trays.

Spread a layer of sauce on each pizza, but don’t overdo it to avoid soggy dough. Add a layer of grated cheese, followed by onions, bell pepper, cold cuts, mushrooms, and olives. If desired, you can add an egg in the center for a more flavorful crust.

Preheat the oven to 220°C (or the highest temperature) and bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

Chef's Tip
For a unique flavor, you can add a few fresh basil leaves on top of the pizza immediately after taking it out of the oven. Also, experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or brie, to add a unique taste to each pizza.

Nutritional Benefits
Homemade pizza is a much healthier option compared to store-bought ones, as you have full control over the ingredients. Whole wheat flour can be used for a dough richer in fiber. Additionally, vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants, while cheese provides protein and calcium.

Possible Variations
- Vegetarian Pizza: Replace cold cuts with vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or broccoli.
- Spicy Pizza: Add chili peppers or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Fish Pizza: Use tuna or smoked salmon as toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. For every 20 g of fresh yeast, use about 7 g of dry yeast.

2. How can I store pizza?
Pizza stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispiness.

3. What can I serve with pizza?
Pizza pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, a glass of red wine, or a cold beer. You can also try a garlic yogurt dip.

A Personal Note
I fondly remember evenings spent with friends, making pizza together, each bringing their favorite ingredients. Cooking becomes a much more enjoyable experience when shared with others. So, before you start, invite your friends or family to help prepare these delicious pizzas!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! I can’t wait to hear how your homemade pizza turned out! Bon appétit!