How to make your own delicious pizza at home- step-by-step procedure

Making pizza at home can be a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a basic homemade pizza from scratch, including dough preparation, sauce making, assembling, and baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the Dough: Mix until a dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

1. Prepare Your Toppings: While the dough is rising, prepare your desired toppings. Slice vegetables, cook meats if necessary, and shred the cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions for two pizzas. Roll out one portion on a floured surface into your desired shape and thickness.
3. Add Sauce and Toppings: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel if using a pizza stone. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and add your toppings.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Flour: Start with 3 ½ cups of flour and add more as needed. Too much flour can make the dough tough.
• Water Temperature: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise. This will improve the texture and flavor.
• Preheating: Preheat your oven thoroughly to get a crispy crust. A pizza stone can enhance this process.

Conclusion

Making pizza at home allows you to customize every aspect to your taste. From the crust to the toppings, the possibilities are endless. With practice, you’ll perfect your technique and be able to enjoy delicious homemade pizza anytime. Happy baking! Watch a video below!