Homemade pizza

Here’s a straightforward and delicious homemade pizza recipe:

Homemade Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix until the dough begins to come together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions for thinner crusts or keep it as one large portion for a thicker crust.
   • Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
   • Add your favorite toppings.
6. Bake:
   • If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza onto the stone. Otherwise, place the baking sheet in the oven.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or other herbs if desired.

Enjoy your homemade pizza!