How to Make the Best Pizza in the World

Pizza is a universally loved dish, but there’s something truly special about making your own pizza at home. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a bit of passion, you can create a pizza that rivals the best pizzerias in the world. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook the best pizza in the world right in your own kitchen.

1. Start with the Perfect Dough

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt

Instructions:

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until the dough begins to come together, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 2-3 balls, depending on how thick or thin you want your crust. Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out.

2. Choose the Right Sauce

A great pizza sauce is simple and full of flavor. For a classic tomato sauce, use the following recipe:

Ingredients:

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and let it cool before spreading on the pizza dough.

3. Use High-Quality Cheese

Mozzarella is the traditional choice for pizza, but to make the best pizza in the world, opt for fresh, high-quality mozzarella. You can also mix in other cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or even a bit of Gorgonzola for added depth of flavor.

Tip:

Tear or slice the mozzarella rather than shredding it, as this will create lovely pockets of gooey cheese on your pizza.

4. Select Your Toppings Wisely

When it comes to toppings, less is often more. Choose a few high-quality ingredients that complement each other. Some classic combinations include:

Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Pepperoni: Pepperoni slices, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Prosciutto and Arugula: Prosciutto slices, fresh arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.
Mushroom and Truffle Oil: Sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella, and a drizzle of truffle oil after baking.

Tip:

Avoid overloading your pizza with too many toppings, as this can make the crust soggy and prevent it from cooking evenly.

5. Master the Baking Process

Baking the pizza correctly is crucial to achieving the perfect crust and melt. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go, usually around 500°F (260°C) or higher. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it’s preheating to get it scorching hot.

Roll and Prepare the Dough:

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a piece of parchment paper or a floured pizza peel.

Add Sauce and Toppings:

Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add your cheese and toppings.

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or directly onto the oven rack (with parchment paper underneath). Bake for 8-12 minutes, depending on your oven and the thickness of your crust, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Finishing Touches:

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two before slicing. Add any finishing touches like fresh basil, arugula, or a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.

6. Serve It Right

For an authentic pizzeria experience, serve your pizza on a wooden board and slice it with a pizza cutter. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a glass of wine or a cold beer for the ultimate meal.

Conclusion

Cooking the best pizza in the world is all about using quality ingredients, mastering the basics, and adding your personal touch. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to making pizza that’s crispy, flavorful, and unforgettable. Enjoy the process, experiment with different toppings and flavors, and most importantly, have fun making and sharing your homemade pizza masterpiece!