Homemade Pizza Dough and Sauce

Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients (Makes 2 medium pizzas):

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (around 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Make the dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil.
   Mix until a sticky dough forms.
2. Knead the dough:
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Let it rise:
   Lightly grease a bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning to coat it.
   Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare for baking:
   Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into two portions.
   Roll each portion out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a chewy crust, let the rolled-out dough rest for 15 minutes before adding toppings.

Homemade Pizza Sauce

Ingredients (Makes enough for 2 medium pizzas):

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the sauce:
   In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
   Season with salt and pepper.
2. Simmer and thicken:
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
3. Cool and use:
   Let the sauce cool slightly before spreading it over your pizza dough.

Putting It All Together

1. 1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
   If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
2. Assemble the pizza:
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the rolled-out dough.
   Add your favorite toppings (mozzarella, pepperoni, veggies, etc.) and finish with a drizzle of olive oil for a golden crust.
3. Bake:
   Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or hot pizza stone.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
4. Slice and serve:
   Let the pizza cool slightly, slice it up, and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!