The Ultimate Sicilian Square: Thick Crust Pizza Perfection

Craving proper Sicilian Pie? This thick crust pizza is easy to make and a flavour explosion! Perfect for sharing. Get the recipe now! Italian Easter Recipes included.

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever fancied a pizza that's more than just a pizza? This Sicilian Pie is the answer! It's a flavour explosion, and it’s proper easy. Honestly, even I can nail it!

Brief Overview

This beast of a pizza originates from sicily, obviously! it's a square, thick-crusted, and totally delicious. you might see similar things in italian easter recipes as italian easter pie .

It's medium difficulty, takes about 2. 5 hours from start to finish and serves 4-6 hungry people.

Main Benefits

The olive oil in the crust is actually good for you, believe it or not. this is perfect for a friday night in with a movie, or even a easter breakfast .

What makes this recipe special? the super thick, airy crust! it’s more like a easter bread than a thin pizza base.

Alright, let's get down to it. you'll need some flour, yeast, water, olive oil, salt, and sugar for the dough.

It's just your standard pizza-making stuff. the sauce needs tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper and a tiny pinch of sugar.

You know, like your nonna made it. oh my gosh, i nearly forgot mozzarella is a must! as well as your favourite toppings.

Pepperoni? sausage? knock yourself out! this makes some amazing meat dinners .

Now listen, i used to get intimidated by pizza dough. but trust me, this is simpler than it seems. we are not making pizza rustica here.

The trick is patience. let the dough rise properly. don’t be tempted to rush it. if you do, it'll be rock solid.

Alright, let's talk ingredients and gear for the best sicilian pie ever! Honestly, the right stuff makes all the difference. This ain't just any pizza recipe, you know? It's an experience.

Key Players: Our Main Ingredients

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. We're talking measurements that work whether you're rocking US or metric. Quality counts, especially with a few key ingredients.

Dough Time

• All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups (500g) . Use a good brand for a great base.
• Instant Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) . Freshness matters!
• Warm Water ( 105- 115° F / 40- 46° C ): 1 1/2 cups (355ml) . Not too hot, not too cold.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) + more for greasing. Extra virgin, naturally!
• Salt: 2 teaspoons (12g) . Sea salt is a nice touch.
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (4g) . Just a pinch!

Sauce Magic

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Again, good quality!
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, always.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces (800g) . San Marzano if you can get 'em.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (2g) . Adds that classic Italian Easter vibe.
• Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon (2g) . Because basil is life.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) , or to taste.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) , or to taste.
• Pinch of Sugar: Balances the acidity.

Topping Central

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 12 ounces (340g) . Whole milk is the way to go, trust me.
• Toppings: Pepperoni slices, cooked sausage, sliced mushrooms, onions, peppers, etc. Go wild. This is your Meat Dinners canvas!

Spice It Up: Seasoning Notes

These spice combinations and flavor enhancers are essential for bringing that true Italian taste to your sicilian pie. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

The Essentials

Dried oregano and basil. These are your base. Don't skimp!

Flavor Boosters

Garlic, salt, pepper. Simple, yet crucial.

Swaps & Substitutions

No oregano? Italian seasoning works in a pinch.

Gear Up: Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen for this. These are the essential tools only!

The Must-Haves

• 9x13 inch baking pan. The heart of our sicilian pie .
• Large mixing bowl. For the dough party.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Accuracy is key!
• Rolling pin (optional). Or just use your hands!
• Pizza cutter or large knife. For that satisfying slice.

Household Hacks

No rolling pin? A wine bottle works! No fancy pizza cutter? A sharp knife is fine.

Honestly, this sicilian pie recipe is a cracker! whether you're planning italian easter recipes , or just a casual easter breakfast , it's a winner.

Remember, the best cooking comes from the heart, and a willingness to get your hands dirty! enjoy your italian easter pie , it’s pizza rustica perfection!

Alright, mate! fancy a slice of something truly special? ditch the usual round pizza and let's dive headfirst into the world of the sicilian pie .

This ain't your average takeaway fodder; this is a thick-crusted, flavour-packed adventure, perfect for a friday night feast or even part of your italian easter recipes .

Trust me, once you've had a slice of this bad boy, you'll never look at pizza the same way again.

Fun fact: did you know that the first pizza place in america opened in 1905 in new york?

Crafting the Perfect Crust: Prep Like a Pro

Right, first things first. Mise en place, my friends! Get everything prepped and ready to go. It's like getting your ducks in a row before the big race. We need:

• Flour, yeast, warm water ( 105- 115° F / 40- 46° C ), olive oil, salt and sugar.
• Crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar.
• And of course, don't forget the mozzarella and all your favourite toppings, from Italian Meats to peppers.

Time-Saving Tip: Measure out all your dry ingredients into separate bowls beforehand. Makes life so much easier.

Getting Your Hands Dirty: Step-by-Step Magic

Alright, let's get down to business!

1. Dough Time: Mix dry ingredients. Add water and oil. Shaggy dough? Good!
2. Knead It: For 5- 7 minutes . Smooth and elastic is the aim of the game.
3. Rise and Shine: Oiled bowl. Warm place. 1-1. 5 hours until doubled.
4. Sauce it Up: Heat oil, garlic for 30 seconds . Tomatoes, herbs, simmer 15 minutes .
5. Oven Ready: Preheat to 450° F ( 232° C) . Grease your pan generously with olive oil.
6. Stretch It Out: Fit the dough into the pan. Press evenly to the edges.
7. Proof Time: Cover it and let it rest for about 20 minutes .
8. Top It: Sauce, cheese, toppings. Go wild!

Pro Tips for Pizza Perfection

Want to take your Sicilian Pie to the next level? Here's the inside scoop.

• Olive Oil is Your Friend: Seriously, don't be shy. It's key to that crispy base and rich flavour. This is a good one to learn if you are experimenting with Italian Easter Recipes , and want to start with an easy dish.
• Don't Overload: Resist the urge to pile on every topping you can find. Trust me, less is more. This is also great in Italian Easter Pie , depending on how you make it.
• Avoid this: I used cold water once. The dough just wouldn't rise. What a disaster!

Look, i know it might seem daunting at first, but trust me, once you nail this sicilian pie recipe, you'll be making it every week.

It's perfect for a casual meat dinners , a easter breakfast , or a italian easter celebration. and hey, if you're feeling adventurous, try making some easter bread to go along with it! the pizza rustica can be a great way to start to explore and look into italian easter recipes ! enjoy, and happy cooking!

Right then, let's get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we? this sicilian pie recipe is blinder, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make it absolutely perfect.

Here's what i've learned over the years, and some bits to ensure you have a crackin' experience with this.

Recipe Notes That'll Make You A Star Baker

Plating and Presentation: Show It Off!

Honestly, presentation matters. you know? slap that sicilian pie onto a wooden board. scatter a few fresh basil leaves on top.

A drizzle of olive oil never hurt anyone either. a great way to serve this, its using the right side dish, but keep on the theme, you know?

Sides & Drinks: Perfect Pairings

For sides, think simple. a crisp green salad is always a winner. as for drinks, a cold peroni or a glass of chianti? bang on! this italian easter recipes will have everyone talking.

If this italian easter is a blast, make this as your easter pie . this is also known as pizza rustica and will be a guaranteed winner during your easter breakfast .

Storing Like a Pro

Right, leftovers. If you've got any, that is!

• Fridge: Wrap it up tight and it'll be good for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Cut it into slices, wrap each one individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Oven's best, keeps the crust crispy. Microwave works in a pinch, but it might go a bit soggy.

Honestly though, this Italian Easter Pie is better fresh.

Mix It Up: Variations on a Theme

Fancy a bit of a twist?

• Veggie Delight: Swap out some of the meat for roasted veggies. Courgettes, peppers, aubergine – the works!
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the base. Just follow the packet instructions.

This can be also part of other meat dinners or you can make a great Easter bread on the side. This italian meats pie is a great alternative.

Quick Nutrition Lowdown

Alright, so this sicilian pie is not exactly a salad, is it? it’s an indulgence, but it's packed with flavour! expect a decent amount of calories, some protein from the cheese, and carbs from the crust.

Treat yourself!

Basically, one slice gives you a fair whack of energy.

Listen, making this sicilian pie should be fun. Don't stress too much about perfection. Just get stuck in, get creative, and enjoy the process. You’ll end up with something delicious, I promise!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Sicilian pie, and how is it different from regular pizza?

Alright, think of Sicilian pie as the hearty, generous cousin of your standard pizza. It's typically baked in a rectangular pan, has a thick, spongy crust (almost like focaccia!), and is often doused in olive oil for that extra bit of richness. So, if you're after a pizza that's more substantial and satisfying, Sicilian pie is the way to go!

My dough isn't rising! What am I doing wrong with my Sicilian pie?

Blimey, that's a common snag! First, make sure your yeast isn't past its sell-by date - fresh is key. The water temperature is also crucial; too hot and you'll kill the yeast, too cold and it won't activate properly. Aim for around 105-115°F (40-46°C). Also, a warm, draft-free spot is essential for a proper rise – think proving drawer or a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!).

Can I prepare the Sicilian pie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can be a proper savvy cook and get ahead! 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. When you're ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about an hour before stretching it into the pan and continuing with the recipe. This can even enhance the flavour!

What are some good topping combinations for Sicilian pie besides the usual pepperoni?

Get creative! Think beyond the bog-standard pepperoni. For a veggie option, roasted vegetables like courgette, aubergine, and peppers are smashing. If you're a meat-lover, try crumbled sausage, spicy salami, or even some pancetta. Don't forget some fresh herbs like basil or oregano to really elevate the flavours of your Sicilian pie.

How should I store leftover Sicilian pie and reheat it to keep it from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom (a culinary catastrophe!), let the pizza cool completely before wrapping it well in foil or placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, the oven is your best bet: place the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy again. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but it's likely to affect the texture.

Is Sicilian pie a healthier pizza option compared to others?

Well, 'healthy' is a bit of a subjective term, innit? Sicilian pie tends to be higher in calories and carbs due to its thick crust and generous use of olive oil. However, you can make it a bit better for you by using whole wheat flour in the dough, loading up on veggie toppings, and using part-skim mozzarella. Like anything, moderation is key and a balanced slice of Sicilian pie can be part of a happy, healthy diet!

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