homemade pizza

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 2 1/2 cups (300g) bread flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
6. Punch down dough and roll out to a 12-inch circle.
7. Transfer dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
8. Spread crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
9. Sprinkle with oregano and garlic powder.
10. Top with mozzarella slices.
11. Drizzle with olive oil.
12. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

• For a crispier crust, preheat pizza stone for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• If you don't have a pizza stone, use a baking sheet. You can also create steam by placing a pan of water on the rack below the pizza while baking.
• Don't overload the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy.
• Store leftover pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore the crust's crispness.