How to Make Pizza from Scratch: A Delicious Recipe for Home Cooks

Pizza is one of the most popular foods in the world, and for a good reason. It’s a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. While there are plenty of options for ordering pizza from a restaurant, there’s something special about making it from scratch at home. Not only can you customize it to your liking, but you can also save money and have fun in the process. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making pizza from scratch, including the ingredients, dough, sauce, toppings, and baking. Let’s get started!

Choosing the Ingredients

The first step in making pizza from scratch is selecting the right ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will determine the final result of your pizza. Here are some tips for choosing the best ingredients:

Flour

The foundation of your pizza is the dough, so it’s essential to choose the right flour. You’ll want to use high-protein flour, which will give your dough the perfect texture and elasticity. Look for flour that is labeled as “pizza flour” or “bread flour.” Many grocery stores carry this type of flour, or you can find it online.

Yeast

Yeast is what makes your dough rise and gives it that fluffy texture. There are two types of yeast: dry yeast and fresh yeast. Dry yeast is easier to find and use, so it’s the best option for home cooks. Make sure to check the expiration date on your yeast package before using it.

Tomatoes

The base of your pizza sauce will be tomatoes. You can use either fresh or canned tomatoes, but make sure they are high-quality. Look for San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and tangy flavor.

Cheese

The cheese is what makes your pizza irresistible. Mozzarella cheese is the most popular choice for pizza, but you can also use other types of cheese like parmesan, ricotta, or goat cheese. Make sure to shred or slice your cheese thinly so that it melts evenly on your pizza.

Toppings

The toppings are where you can get creative and customize your pizza to your liking. Some classic toppings include pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. You can also use more unconventional toppings like pineapple, bacon, or shrimp. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations and flavors.

By choosing high-quality ingredients, you’ll ensure that your pizza tastes delicious and authentic. In the next section, we’ll show you how to make the perfect pizza dough.

To be continued…

Making the Pizza Dough

Making pizza dough from scratch is easier than you might think. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the perfect pizza dough:

Ingredients:

• 500g pizza flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the yeast and warm water until the yeast is dissolved.
3. Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
7. Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size.
8. Punch down the dough to release the air bubbles and divide it into two equal pieces.
9. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using cold water or not letting the dough rise enough can result in a tough and chewy crust.
• Over-kneading the dough can also make it tough.
• Adding too much flour can make the dough dry and crumbly.

By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll have the perfect pizza dough for your homemade pizza.

Preparing the Pizza Sauce

The pizza sauce is just as important as the dough and toppings. Here’s how to make a simple and delicious pizza sauce:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Different Types of Pizza Sauce and Their Flavors:

• Marinara sauce: A classic pizza sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
• White sauce: Made with heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a rich and creamy flavor.
• Pesto sauce: Made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
• Barbecue sauce: Made with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices for a tangy and sweet flavor.

By making your pizza sauce from scratch, you can customize the flavors and adjust the seasoning to your liking. In the next section, we’ll show you how to assemble and bake your homemade pizza.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza

Once you have your dough and sauce ready, it’s time to assemble your pizza. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure it’s the same thickness all around.
3. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone that has been lightly dusted with flour or cornmeal.
4. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges.
5. Add your toppings and cheese on top of the sauce. Be careful not to overload the pizza with toppings as it may not cook evenly.
6. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks

Making the perfect pizza takes practice, but here are some tips and tricks to help you get it right:

Don’t Overwork the Dough

When making your pizza dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overworking the dough can cause it to become tough and chewy. Mix the dough until it comes together, and then let it rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.

Use a Pizza Stone

For the best results, use a pizza stone to bake your pizza. A pizza stone will help distribute heat evenly, resulting in a crispy crust. If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet.

Preheat Your Oven

Make sure to preheat your oven for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza. This will ensure that your pizza cooks evenly and the crust becomes crispy.

Experiment with Toppings

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations. You can use anything from leftover chicken to roasted vegetables to create a unique and delicious pizza.

Slice the Pizza Correctly

When slicing your pizza, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Cut the pizza into even slices, and make sure to clean your knife or cutter between each slice.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the perfect pizza from scratch every time. Remember to have fun and experiment with different flavors and toppings.

In conclusion, making pizza from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience that anyone can enjoy. By using high-quality ingredients and following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create delicious and authentic pizza in your own home. At Buckingham Smokehouse, we believe in using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients in all of our products, including our smoked meats, seafood, and cheeses. We hope this article has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and try making your own pizza from scratch.