Are you dreaming of a slice of New York-style pizza but can’t hop on a plane to the Big Apple? No worries! You can make that delicious, cheesy, crispy pizza right in your own kitchen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make authentic New York-style pizza from scratch. It’s easier than you think, and the results are absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s get started!
What is New York-Style Pizza?
New York-style pizza is famous for its large, foldable slices with a thin, crispy crust. It’s topped with a generous layer of tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. Often, it’s sprinkled with a bit of oregano and sometimes garlic. The key to its irresistible taste is the simple yet high-quality ingredients and the baking technique.
Think of New York-style pizza as a giant, cheesy hug for your taste buds. It’s like the comfort food you never knew you needed!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups of warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Making the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is alive and kicking!
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Let it Rise: 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. It should double in size.
2. Preparing the Sauce
- Cook the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cool the Sauce: Once the sauce is thickened and flavorful, remove it from heat and let it cool. This will make it easier to spread on your dough.
3. Shaping the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to form a large circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Aim for a thin crust, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Transfer the Dough: If you’re using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal. If you’re using a baking sheet, lightly oil it and place the dough on it.
4. Assembling the Pizza
- Add the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. If you like, you can also add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
5. Finishing Touches
- Cool and Slice: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
- Garnish: If you want, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.
- Enjoy: Fold your slice like a true New Yorker and take a big bite. Enjoy your homemade New York-style pizza with a side of your favorite beverage!
Conclusion
Making New York-style pizza at home is a fun and rewarding experience. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy that classic crispy crust and cheesy goodness right in your own kitchen. Remember, the key is to use high-quality ingredients and don’t rush the process. Enjoy your homemade pizza and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!