There’s nothing quite like taking a bite into a fresh, hot slice of artisan pizza. The charred crust gives way to the melt-in-your-mouth cheese and robust tomato sauce.
Crafted with care by skilled pizza makers, artisan pies use only the finest ingredients and traditional techniques to create something delicious far beyond your average delivery or take-out pizza.
In this post, we will provide you with a quick and easy artisan pizza recipe that might guide you to happiness. Through careful ingredient selection and baking methods, you’ll be able to craft pies reminiscent of the wood-fired perfection you might find on the streets of Naples.
What Ingredients Are Used In an Artisan Pizza Recipe?
Artisan pizza is a type of pizza that is made by hand, using high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.
Unlike standard pizzas, which are often mass-produced and frozen, artisan pizzas are crafted with care and attention to detail. This results in a unique, flavorful pie that has a homemade touch to it.
But what are the ingredients used to make an artisan pizza? The primary ingredients used in artisan pizza include:
1. Pizza Dough
2. Yeast
3. Flour
4. Salt
5. Olive oil
6. Tomato sauce
7. Mozzarella cheese
8. Toppings (such as vegetables, meats, and herbs)
In this delightful recipe, each ingredient is carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in an artisan pizza.
For an authentic artisan pizza, a simple traditional dough made from flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil is used. The dough is then hand-stretched and tossed to create a thin and crispy crust.
The yeast is what gives the dough its rise, creating air pockets that give the pizza a light and airy texture. A small amount of yeast is used in a homemade artisan pizza recipe, as it allows for a longer fermentation period which enhances the flavor and creates a more complex taste.
Flour, specifically high-protein flour such as bread flour, is used to provide structure and elasticity to the dough. This type of flour has a higher gluten content which results in a chewy texture and helps the dough hold its shape.
Salt is added not only for flavor but also to help control the fermentation process. It strengthens the gluten in the dough and slows down the yeast, allowing for a longer fermentation time which enhances the flavor.
Olive oil is used in the dough to add moisture and richness, resulting in a softer and more flavorful crust. It also helps to create a golden and crispy exterior when baked.
The tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and herbs such as oregano and basil is used. The sauce is applied sparingly, allowing the flavors of the other ingredients to shine through.
Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for pizza, known for its gooey and stretchy texture when melted. In artisan pizzas, fresh mozzarella or buffalo mozzarella is often used as it has a higher moisture content which creates a creamier and more luxurious texture.
Finally, the toppings are what make an artisan pizza truly unique. From fresh vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms to savory meats like pepperoni or spicy sausage, the possibilities are endless.
Each element plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and unforgettable pizza experience.
How To Make Artisan Pizza?
Making a delicious artisan pizza is a fairly simple process, but it requires some patience and time. Here are the general steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare The Dough
Begin by mixing the flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
Slowly add in water and olive oil while kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
Note: The dough can sit out on your counter and proof for 2 hours if you want to make it ahead
Step 2: Roll Out The Dough
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two portions and roll each one into a thin circle using a rolling pin or your hands.
Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edge of the crust.
Add your desired toppings, such as cheese, meats, and vegetables.
Step 4: Bake In a Hot Oven
Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 450-500°F) for at least 30 minutes.
Transfer carefully the pizza onto a preheated baking stone or baking sheet and bake for about 7 -10 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Masterpiece!
Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices and serving.
Enjoy your homemade artisan pizza with your favorite beverage or alongside a fresh salad.
With this recipe, you’ll be able to experience the satisfaction of creating a delicious, handcrafted pizza right in your kitchen. So next time you’re craving a slice, skip the delivery and try making an artisan pizza instead – your taste buds will thank you!
Tips For a Delicious Artisan Pizza
Here are some additional tips to take your artisan pizza to the next level:
1. Use a Baking Stone Or Steel: A baking stone or steel will help create a crispier crust and evenly distribute heat for a perfectly cooked pizza.
2. Preheat Your Oven: To ensure a crispy crust, make sure to preheat your oven to its highest temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza.
3. Get Creative With Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations. Some unique options include figs and prosciutto, barbecue chicken, or even a dessert pizza with Nutella and fresh berries.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary can add a burst of flavor to your artisan pizza. Simply sprinkle them over the pizza before baking or add them as a topping after they come out of the oven.
5. Don’t Overload On Toppings: While it may be tempting to load up your pizza with all sorts of toppings, remember that less is often more. Too many toppings can weigh down the crust and make it soggy.
Remember these tips and tricks, and you’ll be well on your way to making delicious artisan pizza at home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, now you have the artisan pizza recipe, you can impress your family and friends with your homemade pizza skills.
From the perfect dough to flavorful toppings, each step plays a crucial role in creating a mouthwatering artisan pizza. With some creativity and practice, you can customize your pizza to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
So why settle for mediocre pizza when you can make a delicious artisan version right in your kitchen? Give it a try and see for yourself the difference in taste and quality. Enjoy your homemade artisan pizza!
Artisan Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Pizza sauce of choice (homemade or store-bought)
- Desired toppings (e.g. fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, and sausage)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Slowly add in the warm water and olive oil while kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for at least an hour.
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 450-500°F) for at least 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into two portions and roll each one into a thin circle.
- Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edge of the crust.
- Add desired toppings and fresh herbs.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Carefully transfer the pizza onto a preheated baking stone or baking sheet and bake for about 7 -10 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.