Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or 00 flour)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4-6 ounces pepperoni slices
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
Make the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture (and olive oil, if using).
- Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, salt, and oregano. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting (around 475°F to 500°F or 250°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
Shape the Pizza:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.
- On a floured surface, gently stretch or roll out each portion into a 10-12 inch circle, keeping the edges slightly thicker for the crust.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Place the shaped dough on a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the base, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese, adding as many as you like.
- Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.
Bake:
- Transfer the pizza to the hot oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice and enjoy!
Tips:
- Quality Cheese: Use good-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and melt.
- Crispy Crust: For a crispier bottom, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Extra Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for added flavor!