Are you dreaming of that perfect Neapolitan pizza? The kind with a chewy, bubbly crust, slightly charred edges, and a flavor that sings? Stop dreaming and start making! This recipe, using King Arthur Flour's 00 flour, unlocks the secrets to achieving that authentic Italian pizza experience right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the results are unbelievably delicious. This is one of those healthy meals that tastes incredibly indulgent! Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and impressive. Let's get started on this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm water (around 105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) King Arthur Flour 00 flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a successful dough. If your yeast doesn't foam, it might be dead and you'll need a fresh batch.
Mix the dough:
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Add the 00 flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
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Add the olive oil and continue mixing, kneading the dough in the bowl for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little messy!
First Rise:
- Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic of fermentation happens, developing flavor and texture.
Shape and Second Rise:
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Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
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Lightly flour a clean surface and gently stretch each dough ball into a 12-inch circle or your desired pizza shape. Avoid rolling it out with a rolling pin, as this can make the crust tough. Aim for a slightly uneven, rustic appearance.
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Place the shaped pizzas on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Let them rise for another 30 minutes. This final rise helps achieve that perfect airy crust.
Bake to Perfection:
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Preheat your oven to its highest setting (ideally 500°F or higher, if possible). If you have a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven as well. This high heat is vital for that characteristic Neapolitan char.
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Carefully transfer the pizzas (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
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Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and slightly charred at the edges. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and the thickness of your crust.
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Remove from the oven and top with your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Tips for Pizza Perfection:
- Water Temperature: Lukewarm water is key for activating the yeast. Too hot will kill it, too cold will slow down the process.
- Flour Type: King Arthur 00 flour is ideal for its low protein content, resulting in a tender and airy crust.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough crust.
- High Heat is Essential: A very hot oven is crucial for that signature Neapolitan crust.
Variations:
- Whole Wheat: Substitute up to 1/2 cup of the 00 flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients and a slightly nuttier flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Add dried oregano, basil, or rosemary to the dough for extra aromatic depth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on toppings, but a plain cheese pizza made with this dough will have approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy recipe for delicious pizza dough makes for the best recipes you can find! Enjoy your homemade Neapolitan pizza!