HOW TO PREPARE PIZZA

Making pizza from scratch! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a delicious homemade pizza:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

- 2 cups of warm water

- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast

- 3 tablespoons of olive oil

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 4 cups of all-purpose flour

For the sauce:

- 2 cups of crushed tomatoes

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon of dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the toppings:

- Mozzarella cheese (shredded or sliced)

- Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives)

Instructions:

*Step 1: Make the Dough*

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated.

2. Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes.

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.

*Step 2: Prepare the Sauce*

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

2. Taste and adjust the sauce as needed.

*Step 3: Shape the Dough*

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or baking sheet inside (optional).

2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 2-4 equal portions, depending on the size of pizza you want to make.

3. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/4 inch thick.

*Step 4: Top the Pizza*

1. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

3. Add your desired toppings.

*Step 5: Bake the Pizza*

1. Slide the pizza onto the preheated baking stone or baking sheet.

2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

*Step 6: Enjoy Your Pizza!*

1. Slice the pizza and serve hot.

2. Share with friends and family, or enjoy it all by yourself (we won't judge)!

Tips and Variations:

- Use a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper to transfer the pizza to the oven.

- Try different types of flour, such as bread flour or whole wheat flour, for a unique flavor and texture.

- Experiment with various toppings, such as meats, vegetables, herbs, and spices.

- For a crispy crust, bake the pizza for an additional 2-3 minutes.

- Consider using a pizza stone in the oven to achieve a crispy crust.

Happy pizza making!