Pizza is a universally beloved food, and making it from scratch is a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by individuals and families alike. Not only is homemade pizza tastier and more customizable than store-bought options, but it can also save you money in the long run. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of making pizza from scratch.
The first step in making homemade pizza is to make the dough. You will need flour, yeast, salt, water, and a bit of olive oil. Begin by mixing the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the yeast and mix well. Slowly pour in warm water and the olive oil, stirring constantly until the dough comes together.
Once you have mixed the dough, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm spot for at least an hour. The dough should double in size. This process is called proofing. If you have time, you can also let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator, which will give it a more complex flavor.
While the dough is proofing, prepare the pizza sauce and toppings. You can use canned pizza sauce or make your own using crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a bit of salt and sugar. For toppings, the possibilities are endless. Some classic options are mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and mushrooms, but you can also get creative with ingredients like arugula, roasted vegetables, or even fruit.
Once the dough has proofed, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Flour a flat surface and gently shape the dough into a circle or rectangle. Add the sauce and toppings, leaving an inch of space around the edge. Bake the pizza on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Making homemade pizza from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience that results in a delicious and customizable meal. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a homemade pizza almost as good as your favorite pizzeria's!
