Traditional pizza
Homemade Traditional Pizza
Who doesn’t love a slice of freshly baked pizza with a crispy crust, delicious toppings, and aromas that delight the senses? Pizza is more than just a dish; it’s an experience, an opportunity to gather with loved ones and savor a moment of joy. Whether it’s a casual family night or a party with friends, homemade traditional pizza is always an inspired choice.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8 slices
Ingredients for the dough:
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 small cup olive oil
- 150 ml lukewarm water
- 400 g flour
Ingredients for the topping:
- 250 g tomato sauce
- 300 g sausages
- 200 g salami
- 200 g pressed ham
- 200 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 200 g olives (green or black, as preferred)
- 300 g cheese
- Salt, pepper, and oregano (to taste)
Preparation:
1. Activating the yeast: Start by rubbing the fresh yeast with sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of flour, and a little lukewarm water in a small bowl. This process will activate the yeast, and after a few minutes, you should see foam forming. This is the sign that the yeast is active and ready for use.
2. Making the dough: In a large bowl, sift about 400 g of flour. In the middle of the flour, add the activated yeast, egg, olive oil, 150 ml of lukewarm water, and salt. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to incorporate the ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
3. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a well-floured work surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and easy to handle. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as too dry dough won’t be as fluffy.
4. Resting the dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little olive oil, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
5. Preparing the crusts: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a well-floured work surface until you get a rectangle the size of your baking tray. Prick the dough here and there with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
6. Adding the sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a margin of about 1 cm. Choose a quality tomato sauce, as this will influence the final taste of your pizza.
7. Adding the toppings: Arrange the sausages, salami, pressed ham, mushrooms, and olives on top of the sauce. Be creative; you can add other favorite ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or even pineapple for a tropical touch.
8. Finishing the pizza: Grate the cheese and generously sprinkle it over the toppings. Here you can opt for a mix of cheeses for a more intense flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
9. Baking the pizza: Preheat the oven to 220°C (moderate heat). Place the tray in the oven and bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese melts and forms an appetizing crust.
10. Serving: Once the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes, then cut it into slices and serve hot. You can accompany the pizza with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as natural lemon juice or a dry white wine.
Useful tips:
- If you prefer a crispier pizza, you can roll the dough out into a thinner layer.
- You can make the dough in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Make sure it is well covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a healthier option.
- Instead of sausages, you can use grilled chicken, tuna, or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional benefits:
Homemade pizza offers you a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, depending on the ingredients you choose. Cheese provides calcium, while vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package for activation.
- How can I make the pizza healthier?
Use whole wheat flour, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to the toppings.
- What can I do if I don’t have tomato sauce?
You can use pesto sauce, hummus, or even a cream base to create a white pizza.
Homemade traditional pizza is a simple and versatile recipe that allows you to put your personal touch on it. Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients and discover new combinations. Cooking is, after all, an art, and pizza is the perfect canvas to express your culinary creativity. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 egg, 20 g fresh yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 cup olive oil, 1 cup warm water, 400 g flour, 250 g tomatoes, 300 g sausages, 200 g cheese, 200 g salami, mushrooms, olives, 200 g pressed ham, salt, pepper, oregano.
