How to make a mouthwatering pepperoni pizza like a pro: bbc good food’s secret recipe

Craving a mouthwatering pepperoni pizza but don’t know where to start? Look no further! This comprehensive guide, inspired by the renowned BBC Good Food, will walk you through every step of creating a delectable pizza that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 7g sachet of fast-action dried yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 300ml warm water

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 x 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 150g pepperoni slices
• 150g mozzarella cheese, grated
• Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and leave to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Sauce:

1. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, oregano, and basil.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan/gas 7).
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half.
3. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out one half of the dough into a circle about 30cm in diameter.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased baking tray.
5. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1cm border around the edges.
6. Scatter the pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

4. Bake the Pizza:

1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

5. Slice and Serve:

1. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
• If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can bake the pizza on a greased baking sheet.
• For a crispier crust, preheat the baking tray in the oven before adding the pizza.
• Experiment with different toppings to create your own unique pizza.

Variations:

• Instead of pepperoni, you can use other toppings such as ham, sausage, or vegetables.
• You can add a layer of ricotta cheese or bechamel sauce under the tomato sauce for a richer flavor.
• For a vegetarian pizza, omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, or olives.

Ending: Savor the Delights of Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

With this step-by-step guide, you now have the skills to create a mouthwatering pepperoni pizza in the comfort of your own kitchen. Impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade perfection.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use other types of flour for the dough?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, bread flour, or even gluten-free flour.

Q: How do I make a thicker crust?
A: Use more dough or stretch it out thinner before placing it on the baking tray.

Q: Can I freeze the pizza?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pizza for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.

Q: What are some other toppings I can add to my pizza?
A: You can add any toppings you like, such as mushrooms, peppers, onions, olives, ham, or sausage.

Q: How do I make the pizza sauce spicier?
A: Add a pinch of chili flakes or red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s simmering.