Pizza

Perfect pizza, a beloved delight for everyone, is more than just a simple dish; it is a cooking ritual that brings us together with our loved ones. Whether you enjoy it with friends on a weekend evening or prepare it with family for a relaxing dinner, pizza is always an inspired choice. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve an elastic dough and delicious toppings, and in the end, I will teach you how to personalize your pizza to give it a unique touch.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 teaspoon of dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 300 g of flour (preferably type 00 for a finer dough)
- 200 ml warm water
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 20 g melted butter, slightly cooled
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt

For the toppings:
- 100 ml tomato sauce or pepper puree
- 2-3 thinly sliced sausages (cabanos)
- 50 g grated cheese
- 100 g mozzarella, diced
- 100 g fresh tomatoes, diced
- 100 g bell pepper, sliced
- 2 mushrooms, sliced

The History of Pizza

Pizza has a fascinating history, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Its origins are believed to date back to ancient times when the Greeks baked their bread on hot stones. Over time, Italians perfected this concept by adding various toppings, and modern pizza, as we know it today, came to life in Naples in the 18th century. Each family has its own pizza recipe, passing down the secrets of the perfect dough and ideal ingredients through generations.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of dry yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 3-4 tablespoons of warm water (about 37-40°C) and 3 tablespoons of flour. Mix well until a smooth paste forms. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 10 minutes. You will notice that the yeast starts to ferment and will puff up.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, place 300 g of flour. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter (but not hot), olive oil, salt, the activated yeast, and 200 ml of warm water. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour; if it is too dry, add water gradually.

Step 3: Kneading the dough

Knead the dough for about 5 minutes. It is important for it to become elastic and not stick to the work surfaces. When the dough is ready, shape it into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 20 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Shaping the pizza

After the dough has risen, place it on a floured work surface. Stretch the dough with your fingers, being careful not to tear it, until you get a round or rectangular shape, depending on your baking tray. Place it in a tray lined with baking paper.

Step 5: Adding the toppings

Spread the dough with 100 ml of tomato sauce or pepper puree and evenly sprinkle the sausage slices, mushrooms, peppers, and tomatoes. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed to achieve a delicious pizza.

Step 6: Baking the pizza

Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Place the tray with the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes on low heat. After this time, take the pizza out of the oven and add the mozzarella and grated cheese on top. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes on medium heat, until the cheese melts and becomes golden.

Step 7: Finishing

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. You can add a drizzle of tomato sauce or ketchup in artistic shapes for an appetizing look. Cover the tray with a towel to keep it warm.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve the pizza hot, sliced, alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. An excellent combination would be to serve it with a refreshing lemonade or a dry white wine to complement the flavors. If you want to add a personal touch, you can sprinkle some fresh basil leaves or hot peppers for an intense taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Pizza can be a healthy choice if you prepare it with quality ingredients. Using fresh vegetables provides an important supply of vitamins and fiber, while mozzarella is a good source of calcium and protein. Additionally, whole grain flour can be used to make the dough healthier, offering a richer taste and more nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I store the dough if I’m not using it immediately?
The dough can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with a damp towel, for 1-2 days. You can also freeze it, but make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Can I add other toppings?
Of course! Pizza is extremely versatile. You can use meat, fish, seafood, or any vegetables you prefer. Be creative and experiment with new combinations.

What is the secret to perfect dough?
Proper kneading and rising time are essential. Make sure the dough is elastic and has had enough time to rise in a warm environment.

Variations

For a less traditional pizza, you can try using almond or oat flour for a gluten-free dough. You can also change the toppings based on the season, using fresh vegetables that are available.

Pizza is more than just a simple dish; it is a cooking experience, an opportunity to experiment and create unforgettable moments with loved ones. So, get ready to put your creativity to the test and enjoy every slice of this delicious pizza!