Are you dreaming of that perfect Neapolitan pizza, with its airy crust and slightly charred edges? Stop dreaming and start making! This recipe uses Caputo 00 flour, the gold standard for pizza makers, to deliver an authentic taste and texture you'll crave. It's easier than you think to achieve delicious, homemade pizza, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project. Let's get started on this delicious journey into the world of homemade pizza!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough dough for two 12-inch pizzas.
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For the Dough:
- 500g Caputo 00 flour (or similar high-protein flour)
- 325g lukewarm water (around 70-75°F)
- 1g active dry yeast (or 3g fresh yeast)
- 10g salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For Toppings: (Use your favorites!)
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms)
- Cooked sausage or pepperoni
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
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Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
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Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Caputo 00 flour and salt.
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Mix wet and dry ingredients: Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a tablespoon of olive oil towards the end of kneading for extra flavor and softness. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty; this is a crucial step for developing gluten.
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First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Making the Pizza Sauce:
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Sauté garlic: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Simmer sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
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Divide the dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half.
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Shape the pizza: On a lightly floured surface, shape each dough half into a 12-inch circle or your desired shape.
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Pre-heat your oven: Preheat your oven to its highest temperature (ideally 500°F or higher; a pizza stone helps tremendously).
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Add sauce and toppings: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each pizza crust, leaving a small border. Add your favorite toppings.
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Bake: Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Serve immediately: Enjoy your delicious homemade Caputo 00 pizza!
Tips and Variations:
- For a crispier crust: Use a pizza stone or steel for baking.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative! Try adding different cheeses, meats, vegetables, or even fruit.
- Make it ahead: The pizza dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- Adjust baking time: Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your crust.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on toppings but a basic cheese pizza will have approximately:
- Calories: 250-350
- Protein: 12-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your delicious, homemade pizza! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!