Pizza is one of those foods that is so readily available (either in frozen form or to order) that it’s probably not something you’ve ever considered making yourself. But you should. Not only is it significantly cheaper, but, because you can control exactly what goes in it, it tastes better too. I’ve specified fresh basil and sea salt, but you can easily replace them with a dried Italian herb mix and regular salt depending on what’s available. When it comes to tomato sauce, I prefer to make my own but a store bought one works too. There are infinite variations when it comes to toppings – so once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to experiment!
Ingredients
500g flour
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp dried yeast
100ml lukewarm water
1 tsp olive oil
Tomato sauce
250g mozzarella
Sea salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1 handful of fresh basil
Method
- In a jug, dissolve the sugar and yeast in lukewarm water. Let rest in a warm, draught free place for approx. 10 minutes until a layer of froth has formed.
- In a bowl, measure out the flour and slowly add the yeast mixture. Knead well until combined, adding extra water if necessary.
- Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let the dough rise for approx. 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven at 280°C.
- Cut the mozzarella into thick slices and roughly chop the basil.
- Roll out the dough, cover it in tomato sauce and add the mozzarella slices.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, loosely scattering basil over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake pizza for 10-15 minutes.
