Chicago Thin Crust Pizza

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) pizza sauce 1 cup (240ml) pizza sauce
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions) Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
7. 7.
   Roll out each portion into a thin circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
8. 8.
   Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
9. 9.
   Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and add your desired toppings.
11. 11.
    Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
12. 12.
    Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pizza sauce — Opt for a high-quality pizza sauce or make your own by blending together tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a touch of sugar for sweetness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese — Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged shredded cheese as it may contain additives that affect the texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
• Experiment with different toppings such as Italian sausage, bacon, or fresh basil to customize your pizza.
• For a smoky flavor, try grilling the pizza instead of baking it in the oven.
• If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the pizza sauce.
• Leftover pizza can be reheated in a skillet or toaster oven for a crispy crust.

Serving advice

Serve the Chicago Thin Crust Pizza hot and fresh from the oven. Cut it into squares, also known as "party cut," for an authentic Chicago experience. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Chicago Thin Crust Pizza on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to showcase its rustic charm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance.