15 Original Italian Pizza Crust Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
When it comes to pizza, the crust is arguably the most important part. It serves as the foundation for all of the delicious toppings and flavors that make pizza such a beloved dish. While there are many different types of pizza crust, nothing beats the classic and authentic taste of an original Italian pizza crust. In this article, we will share with you a professional and well-organized introduction to the original Italian pizza crust recipe, so you can recreate this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.
The main ingredient in any pizza crust is flour, and for an authentic Italian crust, it is important to use **00 flour**. This type of flour is finely ground and has a lower protein content, resulting in a softer and more tender crust. **Semolina flour** can also be used for added texture and flavor.
Yeast
To give the crust its signature airy and chewy texture, **active dry yeast** is used. This type of yeast needs to be activated by mixing it with warm water and sugar before adding it to the dough mixture.
Olive Oil
The addition of **extra virgin olive oil** not only adds flavor to the crust but also helps to keep it moist and prevent it from becoming too dry or tough.
Salt
Salt is essential in bringing out the flavors in the dough and balancing the sweetness from the sugar and olive oil. **Kosher salt** is often used in traditional Italian pizza crust recipes.
The Process
Mixing the Dough
To make the dough, the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar are mixed together in a large bowl. Once combined, the warm water and olive oil are added and mixed until a soft and smooth dough forms.
Kneading and Rising
The next step is to knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. This helps to develop the gluten and create a chewy texture. The dough is then left to rise in a warm place for about an hour, until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking
After the dough has risen, it is time to shape it into a circle, using your hands or a rolling pin. To achieve a crispy crust, it is best to use a **pizza stone** or a **pizza steel** in the oven. The crust is then topped with your desired toppings and baked until golden brown and bubbling.
Final Thoughts
The original Italian pizza crust recipe may seem simple, but it is the quality and combination of ingredients, as well as the proper techniques, that make it truly special. Give it a try and taste the difference for yourself!
