Pizza

Delicious Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

I present to you an enticing recipe for making a pizza with a soft and fluffy dough that will turn every meal into a celebration of flavors. Pizza is a versatile dish that can be customized according to everyone's preferences, but today we focus on the perfect base - the pizza dough! Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation Time
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Rising time: 30-45 minutes
- Baking time: 15-20 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients for Pizza Dough
- 300g flour (preferably type 00 for a fine texture)
- 150ml lukewarm milk
- 50ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 egg
- 25g fresh yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Ingredients for Topping
- Sweet ketchup
- 150g sausages (preferably smoked for extra flavor)
- 100g ham
- 100g pitted olives
- 150g cheese (mozzarella or cottage cheese, according to preference)
- 150g grated cheese
- Pizza spices (oregano, basil, cumin)

Let's Start Cooking!

Step 1: Preparing the Yeast
The first essential step is to activate the yeast. In a small bowl, add the yeast along with a little lukewarm milk (not hot, so it doesn't kill the yeast), a pinch of salt, and a little sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, place the flour and make a nest in the middle. Here, add the oil, salt, sugar, egg, and the activated yeast mixture. Start mixing with a wooden spoon or with your hands, gradually incorporating the ingredients.

Helpful Tips:
- Use quality flour, type 00, for a finer texture.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add some dried herbs to the flour, such as oregano or basil.

Step 3: Kneading
Once the ingredients are well combined, start kneading the dough with your hands. Knead for 8-10 minutes until you obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to your hands. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 4: Rising the Dough
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place (away from drafts) for 30-45 minutes until it doubles in size. This process is crucial for achieving a fluffy and tasty pizza.

Preparing the Topping

Step 5: Preparing the Baking Tray
Once the dough has risen, prepare the tray in which you will bake the pizza. Grease it well with olive oil to prevent the dough from sticking.

Step 6: Shaping the Dough
After rising, roll out the dough on a floured surface to obtain a round shape (or rectangular, according to preference). Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared tray and let it rest for a few minutes.

Step 7: Assembling the Pizza
Start by spreading the sweet ketchup over the dough, evening it out over the entire surface. Sprinkle the pizza spices, then add slices of sausage, ham, and pitted olives. Finally, add the cheese and grated cheese, distributing them evenly for a delicious crust.

Baking the Pizza

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 220-250°C. Place the pizza tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes until the dough turns golden and the cheese melts and forms a delicious crust.

Serving

Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes, then slice it and serve it warm. You can add a drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves for a more attractive appearance and an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Variations
- Topping variations: Be creative with toppings! You can add fresh vegetables, mushrooms, pepperoni, or even pineapple for a sweet touch.
- Vegetarian pizza: Replace all ingredients with plant-based options, such as vegan cheese and your favorite vegetables.
- Spicy pizza: For an extra kick, add chili peppers or chili sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of yeast can I use?
You can use fresh yeast or dry yeast. If using dry yeast, use about 8g.

2. How can I store the pizza?
Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven for a fresh taste.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of pizza made according to the above recipe has approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the chosen toppings. Pizza can be a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, especially when using quality ingredients.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put on your apron and start cooking! With a little patience and creativity, you can create an unforgettable pizza that will impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!