Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3g) dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water in a bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours in the fridge. It should double in size.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a small saucepan. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Preheat Oven: Place pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven and preheat to the highest possible temperature (usually 500-550°F / 260-290°C) for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Divide and Shape the Dough: Gently punch down the dough and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll each piece of dough into a 12-inch circle.
  8. Assemble the Pizza: Place one dough circle on a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal (or directly onto a baking sheet). Spread with sauce, leaving a small border. Top with mozzarella cheese.
  9. Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Slice and serve immediately. Repeat with the remaining dough.