Pizza step by step
Weekend Pizza: An Unforgettable Culinary Experience
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 3 large pizzas or 6 portions
When it comes to making pizza, it’s not just about food; it’s about creating memories, exploring flavors, and experimenting with each ingredient. This pizza recipe is a perfect opportunity to have fun in the kitchen and bring your family or friends together. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients for the dough:
- 1 kg of flour (preferably type 00 or bread flour for a fluffier crust)
- 1-2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 250 ml of warm milk
- 300 ml of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 30 g of fresh yeast
Filling (according to preferences, here are some suggestions):
- 750 g of cottage cheese and sheep cheese (in desired proportion)
- 3 egg yolks and 3 whipped egg whites
- 3 sliced onions, sautéed
- Mushrooms (for a savory taste)
- Salami, sliced and lightly sautéed
- Spicy tomato sauce
- Spices (oregano, basil, chili pepper)
- Butter, for an extra flavor
Preparation:
1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with sugar and some of the warm milk. Gradually add flour until you achieve a consistency similar to thick sour cream. Let the mixture sit in a warm place (about 10-15 minutes) until it doubles in volume.
2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the remaining warm milk, warm water, and dissolved salt. Add the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, gently mixing with a wooden spoon, then knead by hand until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
3. Kneading: Place the dough on a work surface and start kneading, folding it towards the center and pressing down. Knead for 10 minutes or until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it’s too sticky, add a little flour.
4. Let the dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place (around 25°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.
5. Dividing the dough: Once it has risen, turn the dough out onto the work surface and divide it into 3 equal parts. You can make 3 equally sized pizzas or a mix of sizes, depending on your preferences. Round each piece of dough.
6. Shaping the dough: Press each piece of dough with your palm, then use a rolling pin to stretch the dough into the desired shape. For a thick-crust pizza, gently fold the edges to give it a nice appearance.
7. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the sheep cheese, egg yolks, and whipped egg whites. Add the sautéed onion, mushrooms, and salami. Mix well.
8. Assembling the pizza: Before adding the filling, grease the baking tray with a little oil or flour. Place the dough in the tray, then spread it with spicy tomato sauce (if you like a spicier taste). Add the filling mixture, spreading it evenly.
9. Baking the pizza: Preheat the oven to 240°C. Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is well cooked. You can brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden appearance.
10. Serving and variations: Once the pizza is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can sprinkle some grated cheese on top and, for an extra flavor, add fresh herbs. Serve the pizza with a fresh salad or a glass of red wine for a perfect weekend dinner.
Helpful tips:
- If you want to prepare the dough in advance, you can let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next day, it will have a more intense flavor.
- Experiment with fillings! You can add fresh vegetables, olives, or different types of cheese, depending on your preferences.
- Don’t forget to keep your hands lightly floured to prevent the dough from sticking.
Nutritional benefits:
Pizza is a versatile meal that can be adapted to include a variety of healthy ingredients. Whole grain flour, cheese, and vegetables provide a source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Moreover, by controlling the ingredients, you can make a healthier pizza, avoiding additives and preservatives found in commercial products.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to use about half the amount of fresh yeast.
- How can I make the pizza crispier? Preheating the tray in the oven before adding the dough helps achieve a crispier crust.
- What to do with leftover dough? Leftover dough can be used to make rolls, focaccia, or even another type of pizza.
Whether you choose a traditional pizza or one with innovative fillings, the cooking process will surely be enjoyable and satisfying. Savor every bite and enjoy the time spent in the kitchen!
Ingredients: 1 kg of flour, 1-2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 250 ml of milk, 300 ml of water, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 30 g of fresh yeast, filling as desired
