. Pizza Dough
Ingredients:
- Flour: 450g (all-purpose wheat flour)
- Lukewarm water: 250ml
- Instant baker's yeast: 10g (about 1 tablespoon)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (to activate the yeast)
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: 1.5 teaspoons
Instructions :
- Activate the yeast: Mix the lukewarm water, sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Mix: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead: Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Lift: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth and leave to rise in a warm place for 1 hour (or until it doubles in volume).
2. Fresh Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
- Fresh tomatoes: 2 large (cut into pieces)
- Onion: 1/2 (finely chopped)
- Garlic: 2 pods (minced)
- Tomato concentrate: 1 tablespoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Seasoning: Salt, black pepper and Herbes de Provence (or oregano)
- Optional: A pinch of sugar (for acidity) and a little chili pepper.
Instructions :
- Brown: Heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
- Simmer: Add the fresh tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper and herbs.
- Thicken: Cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can blend the sauce for a smooth result or leave it chunky.
3. Assembly and Cooking
- Toppings: Shredded mozzarella, green/red peppers, and often a protein like tuna, ground meat, or chicken.
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 200°C.
- Shaping: Punch down the dough (press it to expel the air), roll it out on a floured work surface and place it on a baking tray.
- Garnish: Spread the tomato sauce, add a generous layer of cheese, then your toppings.
- Cook: Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.