Italian Flatbread Recipe With Tuscany Reserve Seasoning
Discover the art of homemade pizza perfection with our delectable Italian Flatbread Recipe. Craft your own pizza dough or grab a fresh one from your local Italian Market, then adorn it with a flavorful ensemble of Tuscany Reserve Seasoning, fresh shredded mozzarella, and a burst of basil. Savor the symphony of flavors and textures, making every bite a culinary celebration!
Ingredients:
Pizza Dough: Makes enough dough for two 10-12 inch pizzas
1 1/2 cups (355 ml) warm water (105°F-115°F)
1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
3 3/4 cups (490 g) bread flour
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons salt (if desired)
1 teaspoon sugar
Pizza Ingredients:
Extra virgin olive oil Cornmeal (to help slide the pizza onto the pizza stone)
One 28 oz. can of tomato sauce (smooth, or puréed preferably San Marzano)
Fresh shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh basil
Pepperoni, thinly sliced (or any toppings of your choice)
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
Allow it to stand for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Create the Dough: Stir in the extra virgin olive oil and Tuscany Reserve Seasoning into the yeast mixture.
Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
Knead and Rise: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat the top with oil.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Prep for Pizza Making: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go (usually around 500°F or higher).
If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during the preheating.
Roll Out and Assemble: Divide the risen dough in half to make two pizzas.
On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a 10-12 inch round.
Toppings and Baking: Sprinkle cornmeal on a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet to help slide the pizza onto the stone.
Place the rolled-out dough on the prepared surface.
Spread a thin layer of high-quality tomato sauce, sprinkle with Tuscany Reserve Seasoning, add fresh shredded mozzarella, chopped basil, and your choice of toppings.
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven.
Bake and Enjoy: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, slice, and savor your delicious homemade pizza!
Whether you make your own dough or opt for a fresh one from your local Italian Market, this recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying pizza experience.
Suggested Sides/Wine & Drink Parings:
Caprese Salad: Fresh and vibrant, a Caprese salad complements the richness of pizza. Combine sliced ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and possibly a balsamic glaze for an added touch.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables add depth to your meal. Toss a mix of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Roast until the vegetables are caramelized and tender.
Arugula and Cherry Tomato Salad: A light and peppery arugula salad provide a refreshing contrast. Toss arugula with halved cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Chianti Classico: A classic Italian red wine like Chianti Classico is a fantastic choice. Its medium to full body, along with the notes of red fruit, herbs, and a hint of earthiness, pairs well with the savory flavors of pizza. The acidity in the wine also helps cut through the richness of the cheese and meats.
Craft Beer - Pale Ale or IPA: A hoppy and flavorful craft beer, particularly a Pale Ale or IPA, can be a great match for pizza. The hop bitterness and aromatic qualities of these beers can complement the bold flavors of the pizza toppings. The carbonation helps refresh your palate between bites.
These sides not only balance the flavors but also offer a variety of textures and freshness to enhance your pizza experience. Enjoy your delicious homemade pizza with these delectable accompaniments!
Tips:
Perfect Pizza Dough: Pay attention to the temperature of the water when activating the yeast. It should be between 105°F-115°F to ensure proper yeast activation. Additionally, allow the dough to rise in a warm place for the specified time, allowing it to double in size for a light and airy crust.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose high-quality ingredients for your pizza toppings, including fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomato sauce, and premium seasoning blends like Tuscany Reserve. The flavor of your pizza is greatly influenced by the quality of the ingredients you use.
Experiment with Toppings: Don't be afraid to get creative with toppings. While classic options like pepperoni are timeless, consider experimenting with unique combinations such as prosciutto and arugula or a Margherita-style pizza with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Customizing your toppings allows you to tailor the pizza to your preferences.
Remember to enjoy the process, and feel free to add your personal touch to make this homemade pizza truly your own!