Homemade Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
1 tbsp granulated sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Toppings:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup sliced black olives
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
For the Dough:
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is frothy.
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the yeast mixture, and stir until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
For the Sauce:
Cook the sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Simmer the tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes to thicken and intensify the flavors.
Assembling the Pizza:
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven for about 30 minutes before baking.
Prepare the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle to fit your pan (about 12 inches in diameter).
Transfer to pan: Place the dough in a greased round aluminum foil pan, pressing it to fit the edges.
Add the sauce and toppings: Spread a generous layer of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese, then add the pepperoni slices, black olives, and any other toppings you prefer.
Bake the pizza: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Finish the pizza: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve: Slice the pizza and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of the pepperoni, mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce.
This homemade pepperoni pizza will have a thick, golden crust, topped with melted mozzarella and perfectly crispy pepperoni. The combination of flavors and textures, from the bubbling cheese to the fresh basil garnish, makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal.