Sicilian Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

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

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Provolone cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other favorite toppings (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle to fit a 13x18-inch baking sheet.
   • Grease the baking sheet with olive oil and place the rolled-out dough into the pan, stretching it to fit the edges.
   • Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Provolone cheeses over the sauce.
   • Add pepperoni slices or other desired toppings on top of the cheese.
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the toppings.

4. Bake the Pizza:

   • Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
   • Let the pizza cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Sicilian Pizza!