Like many of you, we had fallen into the trap of ordering pizza from our local pizzeria at least once on the weekend. Loaded with toppings, we were spending a fortune for a convenience that was very unhealthy for us. I came across a recipe for pizza dough in a new cookbook and figured I would give it a try on a rainy Sunday while everyone was watching the race.
Dough
1/4 cup warm water (110 degrees)
1 packet active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup water at room temp
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt( do not leave out)
dusting of cornmeal, if desired
In a small bowl combine the warm water , yeast, and 1/4 cup of the flour. Stir and let sit about 20 minutes.
Stir down the yeast mixture. In a larger mixing bowl, combine the remaining flour, olive oil , salt, and water. Add the yeast mixture.
At this point you have 2 options. You can turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Or you can use the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer for 3-4 minutes.
When your dough ball is done, let it rest for at least 10 minutes on the counter. You can put the ball in a plastic bag to use later or even freeze it for up to 2 weeks. I take them out the night before I want to use them and put them in the fridge.
Roll it out on a floured surface to the size you want. I make a 12 inch pizza with this recipe.
Dust a pizza pan with cornmeal then place your dough in. Use a fork to poke a ton of holes in the top. Don't skip this step because you will have a balloon before you are done.
Bake at 450 degrees for 7 minutes.
Now you can top your crust with anything you like. Some combinations I have used are.......
Barbecue sauce , chicken, and mozzarella
Tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella
Hamburger, cheddar, and onions
Mushrooms, onions, olives, and provolone mozzarella mix
After you have topped your pizza, slide it back in the oven for 8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Wait a few minutes before cutting so the cheese won't slide away on you.
After you have made this yourself , you will never go back to store bought again.
Let me know you favorite toppings!
