Sicilian pizza
Sicilian-Style Pizza: A Homemade Delight
Sicilian-style pizza is known for its thick, airy crust, robust tomato sauce, and delicious toppings. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizzas, Sicilian pizza has a soft and fluffy base, often baked in a rectangular pan. If you love homemade pizza, this recipe will guide you through making an authentic Sicilian-style pizza from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 tablespoon salt
2 cups warm water
1 teaspoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
1 cup tomato sauce
3 cups grated mozzarella cheese
1½ cups thinly sliced sweet yellow onion
3 anchovies, finely chopped (optional)
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh herbs or pizza seasoning for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Making the perfect Sicilian pizza starts with a well-prepared dough. Follow these steps:
In a large bowl, mix the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt.
Gradually add the warm water while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes 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 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Sicilian pizza is traditionally baked in a well-oiled pan, which gives the crust its characteristic texture.
Generously coat a 10×14-inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote a crisp crust.
Transfer the risen dough to the pan, gently stretching it to fit the edges. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes before trying again.
Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
A properly preheated oven ensures an evenly baked crust.
Set your oven to 500°F (260°C).
If using a baking stone or steel, place it in the oven while preheating for better heat distribution.
Step 4: Parbake the Crust
Parbaking helps create a sturdy base for your toppings.
Dimple the surface of the dough with your fingers to prevent air bubbles.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the dough starts to set but hasn’t browned.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Now, it’s time to build your pizza with delicious layers of flavor.
Spread an even layer of tomato sauce over the parbaked crust.
Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
Evenly distribute the sliced onions and chopped anchovies (if using).
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs or pizza seasoning.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Return the pizza to the oven for a final bake.
Place the pan back into the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the pizza into square slices for an authentic Sicilian-style presentation.
Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your homemade Sicilian pizza with family and friends!
Why Make Sicilian Pizza at Home?
Customizable: Making your own pizza allows you to control the ingredients and adjust flavors to your liking.
Healthier Option: Homemade pizza eliminates the preservatives and additives found in store-bought or takeout versions.
Authentic Taste: With fresh ingredients and traditional methods, you can recreate the flavors of authentic Sicilian pizza in your kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Sicilian Pizza
For a Crispy Bottom: Use a dark-colored metal baking pan to help the crust crisp up nicely.
Let the Dough Rise Slowly: For enhanced flavor, let the dough rise in the fridge overnight instead of at room temperature.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding olives, roasted bell peppers, or spicy pepperoni for a unique twist
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Making Sicilian pizza at home is a rewarding experience that brings authentic flavors to your table. With a thick, airy crust and a perfect balance of toppings, this pizza is sure to become a household favorite. Try this recipe and enjoy the rich taste of Sicilian-style pizza—made from scratch with love!
