SPECIAL ITALIAN PIZZA RECIPE

Special Italian Pizza Recipe

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, and its roots trace back to Italy, where it’s been perfected into an art form. Making an authentic Italian pizza at home might seem challenging, but with this unique and simple recipe, you can create a delicious masterpiece in your own kitchen. This guide will take you through the steps to craft a classic Margherita pizza—a cornerstone of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 packet (7g) dry yeast
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• ¾ cup (180ml) tomato passata (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 200g fresh mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt to taste
  

  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, stirring continuously.
4. Add olive oil and knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce and Toppings

1. Mix the tomato passata with oregano, a pinch of salt, and olive oil in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Slice the mozzarella into thin pieces and drain excess moisture using a paper towel.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 475°F/250°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.
2. Divide the dough into two portions for two medium pizzas or keep it whole for a large pizza.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into your desired shape, maintaining an even thickness.
   

   

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

1. Transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper for easier handling.
2. Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the mozzarella slices over the sauce.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

1. Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp, and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 7: Add Finishing Touches

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately place fresh basil leaves on top.
2. Drizzle with a little olive oil for an authentic touch.
3. Slice and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Pizza

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the toppings makes a huge difference. Opt for fresh mozzarella and aromatic basil.
• Don’t Overload: Less is more when it comes to Italian pizza. Let each ingredient shine.
• Experiment: Add your favorite toppings, such as olives, cherry tomatoes, or prosciutto, while keeping the essence of Italian simplicity.

Making pizza at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to personalize each element to your taste. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this special Italian pizza recipe is sure to impress. Buon appetito!