Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the toppings:
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: additional toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, etc.
Instructions:
Prepare the dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms. Then, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Prepare the sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach. Most home ovens go up to 500-550°F (260-290°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven as it preheats.
Shape the pizza:
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into two equal portions (or more if you prefer smaller pizzas).
- Roll out each portion of dough into a round shape, about 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. If needed, use your hands to stretch the dough gently to achieve the desired shape.
Assemble the pizza:
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper. This will make it easier to transfer the pizza onto the hot baking surface in the oven.
- Spread a generous amount of the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Add any additional toppings of your choice, such as sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives.
Bake the pizza:
- Using a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet, carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated baking surface in the oven.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Italian pizza! Buon appetito!
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