Rustic pizza

Homemade Pizza with Fluffy Dough: A Family Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 large servings or 6 medium servings

Pizza is more than just a dish; it’s a way to bring the family together around the table, create memories, and explore diverse flavors. In this recipe, we will learn how to prepare a fluffy and delicious dough for homemade pizza, which can be customized to everyone’s preferences. We will also discuss using leftover dough to make delicious strudels, adding a touch of creativity to the kitchen.

Ingredients for the Dough:
- 1 small cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups of warm water (approximately 500 ml)
- Flour as needed (approximately 600-700 g)
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of oregano (optional)

Ingredients for Topping:
- Banat or rustic salami
- Grated cheese
- Jarred mushrooms
- Olives (or other preferred vegetables)
- 1 tomato and 1 red bell pepper
- Sweet ketchup

Step by Step for Perfect Dough:
1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast cube in warm water. It’s important that the water is not hot, as excessive heat will kill the yeast. Add two tablespoons of flour and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the activated yeast with olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour while mixing with a wooden spoon. Continue to add flour until the dough is firm enough to be kneaded.

3. Kneading the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. If you want a fluffier pizza, let the dough rise for 30 minutes covered with a damp towel.

Practical Tip: If you are short on time, you can use the dough immediately, but a short rising period will improve the texture and taste.

4. Preparing the Topping Ingredients: While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the toppings. Slice the salami, vegetables, and mushrooms thinly. Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

5. Shaping the Pizza: After the dough has risen, knead it again for a few minutes. Divide the dough into two equal parts. One part can be stored in the fridge for later use (ideal for strudels), while the other part is rolled out to the desired thickness.

6. Assembling the Pizza: Place the rolled-out dough in the prepared tray, spread ketchup, and add slices of salami, mushrooms, olives, and vegetables. Sprinkle grated cheese on top to create a golden, delicious crust.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (medium heat) and bake the pizza for 20 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.

Serving Tip: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad or a cold beer to complete the culinary experience.

Possible Variations: This dough is extremely versatile and can be used not only for pizza but also for pies, tarts, or even strudels. If you want to experiment, add fresh herbs to the dough or try different types of flour, such as whole wheat or oat flour for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Information: One serving of homemade pizza contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein (from cheese and salami), and fiber (if using fresh vegetables).

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast instead of fresh yeast. Activation is done in the same way.
- How can I store the dough? The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Make sure it is well covered to prevent it from drying out.
- What is the secret to a crispy crust? Preheating the oven and using a preheated baking tray can help achieve a perfectly crispy crust.

Homemade pizza is not just a recipe; it’s a true family activity. Try to involve the kids in preparing the ingredients and let them create their own personalized pizza. This way, you will turn cooking into a pleasant and fun experience. Enjoy your meal!