VERSATILE BASIC PIZZA CRUST This is the recipe you always wish you’d had. The process is simple and yields a versatile dough that can be used for pizzas, calzones, breadsticks, or even a basic rustic-style loaf. For the ideal flavor and texture, make this dough one day in advance. However, it will work if you throw it together the same day, too. Since this recipe makes a large batch, you’ll have plenty for several small pizzas, four medium-sized pizzas (approx. 10-inch), or four small loaves of bread. Try it for cinnamon rolls too!
7. When ready to prepare, cut off a section of the dough for individual pizzas, or stretch each ball into a 10-inch circle. You can cook the dough on indirect heat on your grill (before adding toppings so you can flip frequently), place it on a pan in the oven, cook it in a cast-iron skillet, or brown it in an outdoor pizza oven.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3): z 3 cups water (very warm, but not hot) z 2 tablespoons honey
z 2 packages or 4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast z 7 cups white flour (can use a combination of bread flour, wheat, etc. if you prefer) z ¼ cup olive oil z 3 tablespoons kosher salt Directions: 1. Dissolve the honey in the warm water in a large mixing bowl. Then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let the yeast stand until it activates, around 5-8 minutes. 2. Once the yeast mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, mix in the flour, olive oil, and salt. 3. Use a dough hook on your mixer or pour the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until it is smooth and pliable. 4. Allow the dough to rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about one hour. 5. Once risen, punch down the dough and place it on the floured work surface. Knead lightly and divide into four sections. Roll each section into a ball, creating a smooth surface around the top. 6. At this point, oil the top of each ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. If you don’t have that much time, you can refrigerate until ready to use. The longer refrigeration provides a deeper flavor, chewier texture, and easier handling. However, same-day dough is still delicious.
EASY TOMATO PIZZA SAUCE For a pizza sauce that comes together quickly, simply mix tomatoes or canned tomato sauce with seasonings, and you’re ready for pizza night. Ingredients (Serves 2–3): z 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes or 12-oz can tomato sauce z 1 tablespoon sugar, honey, agave, or sugar alternative z 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning z ½ teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste z Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Combine all ingredients. You can prepare this in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready for use.
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