Ingredients:
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 7 grams active dry yeast
- 10 grams salt
- 10 grams sugar
- 300 milliliters lukewarm water
- 50 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Dissolve yeast in water
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the mixture.
Step 3: Gradually add wet ingredients
Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well in the middle of the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the wet mixture into the dry mixture until a dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a clean bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the pinza
Punch down the risen dough to deflate it. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Final rise
Cover the shaped pinza with the damp kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 8: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) while the pinza is undergoing its final rise.
Step 9: Bake the pinza
Once preheated, bake the pinza in the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown on top.
Step 10: Cool and enjoy
Remove the pinza from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade pinza!
With this simple step-by-step guide, making a delicious pinza at home is a breeze. Impress your loved ones with your baking skills and savor the warm, freshly baked taste of this Italian classic!