Grandma's Sicilian: The Crispy-Crusted Square Pizza

Craving sicillian pizza? This Grandma's recipe delivers a thick, crispy crust & rich tomato flavour. A Friday night treat, done right! Get the recipe now.

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever find yourself craving proper comfort food? honestly, nothing hits the spot like a good pizza. today, we're diving deep into the delicious world of sicilian pizza , a thick, square slice of happiness that's about to become your new obsession.

Brief Overview

Sicilian pizza hails from the sunny island of sicily. think of it as the cool cousin of your regular round pizza.

This isn't just any homemade pizza recipe ; it's a flavour bomb. it's also surprisingly easy to make. a good sicilian pizza dough recipe takes about 3 hours with proofing time, and this recipe yields 8-12 satisfying slices.

Main Benefits

What makes this recipe special? its texture. you get a crispy bottom, fluffy interior, and a burst of flavour. this tomato pizza is perfect for a casual get-together or a cosy night in.

Plus, you can sneak in a few extra veggies to up the health factor.

Dough-licious Times: Crafting the Perfect Crust

Let's talk dough, shall we? the base of any great pizza is the crust, and for sicilian style pizza , we're aiming for something thick and airy, almost like a focaccia bread recipe .

Now, i know what you're thinking: "dough? that sounds complicated!" don't you stress. it's simpler than you think.

We’re talking 2 cups of all-purpose flour, a teaspoon each of instant dry yeast and salt, a tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 1/4 cups of warm water.

Mix it all together, knead it like you mean it, and let it rise. honestly, watching that dough double in size is half the fun.

Sauce Boss: Building Flavour From the Ground Up

No sicilian pizza is complete without a killer sauce. forget those bland, sugary sauces you get in the shops. we're making our own, and it's going to be amazing.

You'll need some olive oil, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you're feeling brave), a can of crushed tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper.

Simmer it all together for about 15 minutes. boom. instant flavour upgrade. think of it as the equivalent of a proper brew, only with tomatoes.

Topping It Off: The Grand Finale

Alright, let's get this thing assembled! spread that amazing sauce all over your proofed dough. then, generously sprinkle 8 ounces of mozzarella and 4 ounces of pecorino romano cheese.

Don't be shy! next you can try adding anchovies, chopped or sliced olives.

Honestly, the key to a great Sicilian pizza is the crust and sauce. You can customize the toppings to your heart's content, and I'll cover the details in a separate section! Now you have your very own delicious pizza stromboli

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this epic sicillian pizza . Honestly, getting the ingredients right is half the battle, innit?

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

This Sicilian pizza recipe starts with a great dough.

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g) . Go for a good quality flour. It makes a difference to your Sicilian Pizza Dough Recipe .
• Instant Dry Yeast: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Make sure it's not past its sell-by date.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (6g) . Sea salt if you're feeling fancy.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , plus more for greasing. Extra virgin gives the best flavour.
• Warm Water: 1 1/4 cups (300ml) . About 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . Too hot and you'll kill the yeast.

Now, for the yummy sauce on our Sicilian Style Pizza :

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best, you know?
• Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a bit of a kick.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce / 800g) can . Good quality, trust me.
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (5g) . Balances the acidity.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

And finally, the toppings! This part really makes this Homemade Pizza Recipe pop:

• Whole Milk Mozzarella: 8 ounces (225g) , shredded.
• Pecorino Romano Cheese: 4 ounces (110g) , grated. Or Parmesan, if you're being a bit of a rebel.
• Optional: Anchovies, chopped. Seriously, try it!
• Optional: Sliced Olives (black or green).

Seasoning Notes

Okay, so the magic is often in the spice, yeah? for this tomato pizza , oregano is key. it's that classic italian flavour.

A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely warmth, but it's totally optional. now, basil is also wonderful if you have it.

Don't be afraid to experiment!

If you don't have oregano, italian seasoning mix works a treat. you could also use some dried thyme. garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic in a pinch.

But nothing really beats the real thing.

Remember, salt and pepper are your friends! Season every layer of flavour. A little bit of good quality sea salt really elevates this sicillian pizza .

Equipment Needed

Right, what do you actually need to make this happen?

• 9x13 inch Baking Pan . A must for that classic square sicillian pizza shape.
• Large Mixing Bowl. For the dough, obviously.
• Stand Mixer. (optional). Honestly, it makes life easier, but you can knead by hand.
• Pizza Cutter or Large Knife. For slicing.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Gotta be precise, eh?

Don't have a stand mixer? no worries! just knead the dough by hand for 5- 7 minutes. no 9x13 pan? a similar sized baking tray will do.

A rolling pin can sub in for stretching out the dough.

Okay, you are all set. now get those ingredients together! next up is how to prepare it all! this focaccia bread recipe style dough is going to be the base for the perfect sicilian pizza .

Enjoy also a pizza stromboli with the remains, or the full pizza like a stromboli.

Okay, mates, let's talk pizza. not just any pizza, but sicilian pizza – the kind that'll have you saying "oh my gosh!" after the first bite.

We're ditching the round for a square, and we're going thick crust. think focaccia bread recipe levels of fluffy, but topped with all that pizza goodness.

Trust me, this homemade pizza recipe is a game-changer. let's get to it, shall we?

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Right, before we dive in, let's get organised. It's called mise en place. Basically, have everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Honestly, this bit is essential .

• Essential mise en place: Chop the garlic, shred the cheese – you know the drill. Also, measure out your flour and yeast. This is going to be a flavour bomb, so you gotta be ready for the next steps.
• Time-saving organization tips: Prep your sauce while the dough proofs! Saves so much time. This is a great way to save time and maybe even create your own Sicilian Pizza Dough Recipe
• Safety reminders: Now, keep that heat in mind. Ovens are HOT. Don't be a hero, use oven gloves!

Step-by-Step: Pizza Perfection

Alright, now for the fun bit. Follow these steps, and you'll be scoffing down this Sicilian Style Pizza in no time.

1. Combine 2 cups (250g) of flour, 1 tsp (5ml) yeast and 1 tsp (6g) salt.
2. Add 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil and 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water . Mix into a shaggy dough.
3. Knead for 5- 7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Let rise for 1-1. 5 hours, until doubled.
5. Simmer your sauce for 15 minutes .
6. Stretch your dough into a greased 9x13 inch pan. Proof for 30 minutes.
7. Top with sauce, 8 ounces (225g) mozzarella, 4 ounces (110g) pecorino romano, and any extras.
8. Bake at 450° F ( 230° C) for 25- 30 minutes.

Visual cues? Golden brown crust, bubbly cheese. The critical temperature? We're aiming for that perfect, crispy base. This can even be compared to Detroit Style Pizza !

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Pizza Game

Want to take this Tomato Pizza to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've picked up over the years. These make all the difference.

• Expert technique: Don't be shy with the olive oil in the pan! It's what gives you that gorgeous crispy bottom. It's the perfect Sicilian Pizza Recipe .
• Common mistake: Overloading the toppings. Less is more, especially with a thick crust.
• Make-ahead option: The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Total lifesaver. This applies to the dough as well.

So there you have it! My take on the Sicilian Pizza . Give it a go, and let me know what you think! And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try a Pizza Stromboli next time? Get creative!

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! we've got the lowdown on making the best ever sicilian pizza . seriously, you'll ditch the takeaway quicker than you can say "mama mia!" let's talk about all the extras and bits that will make your homemade pizza recipe pop.

Recipe Notes: Nailing the Sicilian Pizza Game

Listen, this ain't just any Sicilian Pizza Recipe . It's the bomb-diggity. So, let's get into some juicy details that'll make your Sicilian style pizza sing.

Serving it Up: Plating & Pairings

Right, you've made this beautiful sicilian pizza . now, what? don't just chuck it on a plate! think presentation. a wooden board adds a rustic touch.

A scattering of fresh basil? chef's kiss!

As for sides, keep it simple. a crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is perf. and a cheeky glass of red wine? absolutely! it's basically a party on a plate.

Don't forget a focaccia bread recipe to sop up all that amazing sauce.

Storing Your Leftover Slice

We all know that sometimes we have leftover pizza.

Want to save the sicilian pizza for later? no sweat! once it's cooled, wrap it up tight in cling film or pop it in an airtight container.

It will happily sit in the fridge for up to three days.

Fancy keeping it longer? freeze it! wrap individual slices, then bag them up. when you're ready for round two, blast it in the oven (or even the air fryer!).

Honestly, it's almost as good as fresh. to reheat, pop slices in a 350° f ( 175° c) oven until heated through.

Remixing the Recipe: Variations Galore

Fancy a change? Sorted!

• Veggie Power: Chuck on some roasted veggies like peppers, onions, and courgette. Makes it a bit healthier, yeah?
• Spice things up: Add a pinch of chilli flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some spicy salami on top.

If you're catering for your plant-based mates, grab a good vegan cheese. Swap the dough for a gluten-free option. Everyone gets Sicilian Pizza .

Nutrition Know-How: The Good Stuff

Okay, let's be real. Sicilian pizza isn't exactly a health food, but everything is good in moderation, right?

It's got carbs for energy, protein from the cheese, and, well, happiness in every slice. A quick check shows, roughly, each slice packs about 350 calories.

This isn’t exactly diet food, but it's food for the soul. This is all about balance, enjoy your slice!

Honestly, making this sicilian pizza dough recipe is easier than ordering a takeaway. so, ditch the apps, dust off your apron, and get baking.

Trust me, you won't regret it. plus, who can resist a good tomato pizza or pizza stromboli ? you will impress your mates! if you make it detroit-style, it will be even more crazy

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Sicilian pizza different from a regular pizza, like a Neapolitan or New York style?

Think of Sicilian pizza as the comfy, rectangular cousin of the pizza family. Unlike the thin, round crusts of Neapolitan or New York-style pizzas, a Sicilian pizza boasts a thick, spongy crust similar to focaccia, baked in a rectangular pan. This results in a softer interior and crispy, olive oil-drenched edges – pure comfort food, innit?

My Sicilian pizza crust came out soggy. What went wrong?

Oh, soggy bottoms are a right pain, aren't they? A soggy crust usually points to not enough preheating or too much moisture. Ensure your oven is thoroughly preheated to the correct temperature (450°F / 230°C) and that you've generously greased the pan with olive oil. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet toppings.

Can I make Sicilian pizza dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the dough ahead of time is a great way to spread out the effort. After the first rise, punch down the dough, wrap it tightly in cling film, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before stretching it into the pan for that all-important second proof. This gives the yeast a chance to wake up again, ensuring a lovely, airy crust.

What are some good topping variations for Sicilian pizza, besides the classic cheese and tomato sauce?

The topping possibilities are endless! Channel your inner Jamie Oliver and get creative. Roasted vegetables like peppers, onions, and courgettes work wonders. For meat-lovers, try spicy sausage or pepperoni. And don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, for a richer flavour. Anchovies and sliced olives are also quintessential Sicilian additions if you're feeling adventurous. Just remember, less is more!

How should I store leftover Sicilian pizza, and how long will it last?

Leftover Sicilian pizza is brilliant the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven (350°F / 175°C) for a few minutes to re-crisp the crust, or use a frying pan over medium heat for a super-crispy base. You can also microwave it, but the crust will lose some of its crispness – a small price to pay for convenience, eh?

Is Sicilian pizza a healthier option compared to other types of pizza? What are the nutritional considerations?

That's a fair question! While Sicilian pizza offers a satisfyingly hearty slice, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. The thicker crust and generous cheese topping can contribute to a higher calorie and fat content compared to thinner-crust pizzas. However, you can lighten it up by using part-skim mozzarella, loading up on vegetables, and using olive oil sparingly. Remember that our estimated nutritional information, at approximately 350 calories per slice is an estimate and can change depending on ingredients used.

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