Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour. - Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool. - Assemble the Pizza:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep dish pan with oil or butter. Roll out the dough and press it into the pan, making sure it comes up the sides. Layer mozzarella cheese on the bottom, followed by cooked sausage and pepperoni. Pour the tomato sauce on top, spreading evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the sauce. - Bake:
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. - Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into wedges and serve warm. Dig into the cheesy, saucy goodness!