Recipe: Bitonto-Puglia Pizza
Introduction
Bitonto-Puglia Pizza is a delicious and authentic Italian pizza originating from the town of Bitonto in the Puglia region. It is known for its thin and crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and traditional cooking methods. In this article, we will share a step-by-step recipe to recreate this mouthwatering pizza at home.
Ingredients
To make Bitonto-Puglia Pizza, you will need the following ingredients:
Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
Toppings:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shape and Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface.
Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Pre-bake the crust for about 5 minutes until it starts to firm up.
Step 3: Add Toppings and Bake
Remove the pre-baked crust from the oven and spread tomato sauce evenly over each pizza.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by sliced cherry tomatoes and black olives.
Sprinkle dried oregano on top for added flavor.
Place the pizzas back in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the pizzas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Slice the pizzas and serve hot.
Conclusion
Bitonto-Puglia Pizza is a delightful Italian dish that can be easily prepared at home. With its crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and traditional cooking techniques, it is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this recipe to enjoy a taste of Bitonto-Puglia right in your own kitchen.