Proper Prospective

New York Style Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
  • In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until the dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  1. Make the Sauce:
  • In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool.
  1. Assemble the Pizza:
  • Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as it safely goes). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat.
  • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a thin, round crust on a floured surface.
  • Transfer the crust to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce and add any additional toppings you like.
  1. Bake the Pizza:
  • Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
  • Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan, if desired.
  1. Repeat with Remaining Dough:
  • Use the second portion of dough to make another pizza, or save it for later use.

Enjoy your homemade New York-style pizza!