Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pizza Sauce:
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For Toppings:
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
Instructions:
For the Pizza Dough:
Activate Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
Knead Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Punch Down and Rest:
Punch down the dough, divide it in half if making two pizzas, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Roll Out Dough:
Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface.
For the Pizza Sauce:
Cook Aromatics:
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend (Optional):
For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
Prepare Toppings:
Precook any raw toppings that require it, like sausage or mushrooms.
Assemble Pizza:
Place rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a layer of sauce, add cheese, and arrange your desired toppings.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Serve:
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, slice, and enjoy!