Margherita pizza recipie and cooking method

Margherita  pizza recipie and cooking method

Making a classic Margherita pizza at home is a delightful experience. Here's a straightforward recipe and method to achieve a delicious result:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

• For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Toppings:

    • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
    • Fresh basil leaves
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
    • Optional: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
    • 

    • Method:

      1. Prepare the Dough:

      1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
      2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Create a well in the center, and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
      3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
      4. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

         2. Prepare the Sauce:

         1. Cook Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
            

            3. Assemble and Bake the Pizza:

            1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to its highest setting, usually around 475-500°F (245-260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
            2. Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 2 equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
            3. Add Sauce: Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
            4. Add Toppings: Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
            5. Bake Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
            6. Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

               Tips:

               • Preheat your oven thoroughly to get the crust as crispy as possible.
               • Use a pizza stone or a baking steel for a better crust texture, if available.
               • For a crispier crust, you can bake the pizza directly on the oven rack or a preheated baking sheet.

               Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza