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New York Style Pizza

New York Style Pizza - Easy Family Meal

Ah, New York style pizza! Just saying its name conjures images of bustling streets, neon lights, and the tantalizing aroma wafting from corner pizzerias. I remember my first slice — hot cheese stretching with every bite, a crispy yet pliable crust that could hold its own, and that rich, tangy sauce draping everything in harmony.
Anyone who’s wandered through New York City can attest to the magic of this dish. It’s more than a mere meal; it’s a slice of the city’s soul. I wanted to bust a few myths about this quintessential pizza while diving deep into its delightful creation at home. Ready your apron. We're going to transform your kitchen into your very own pizzeria.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 22 1/2 ounces bread flour about 4 1/2 cups
  • 0.35 ounce instant dry yeast about 2 teaspoons
  • 0.5 ounce granulated sugar about 1 1/2 tablespoons
  • 0.35 ounce fine kosher salt about 1 tablespoon
  • 15 ounces lukewarm water about 1 3/4 cups
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 batch homemade New York-style pizza sauce
  • 1 pound shredded full-fat mozzarella about 4 cups
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. Mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Slowly add the lukewarm water and olive oil. Stir until everything combines into a shaggy dough.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
  1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This is where the magic happens! Turn up the heat in the kitchen with some tunes.
Step 3: Let It Rise
  1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for at least 1 to 2 hours. You’re looking for it to double in size. Patience is key here.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
  1. As the dough settles, whip up your pizza sauce. Combine canned tomatoes (crushed), fresh basil, garlic, and a pinch of sugar in a saucepan. Simmer for 20-30 minutes. The flavors meld beautifully, making this sauce a star.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as it goes). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside while your oven heats up. This will give you that crunchy, restaurant-quality crust.
Step 6: Shape the Pizza
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into two pieces for two large pizzas or keep it whole for one giant one. Roll or stretch out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Step 7: Assemble the Pizza
  1. Spread a generous layer of sauce over the stretched dough. Sprinkle the cheese evenly and add your toppings. Remember, less is more — you want the base to shine through!
Step 8: Bake the Pizza
  1. Slide your pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
  1. Remove the hot pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a minute, then slice it as you prefer. Get ready for some real flavor fireworks!

Notes

  • Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative. Add veggies, meats, or even fruits like pineapple for a twist.
  • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients. Fresh cheese and tomatoes can make a world of difference.
  • Don’t Rush the Dough: Allowing the dough to ferment longer improves flavor. If you can, consider making it a day ahead and letting it rise in the fridge.
  • Baking Technique: If you don’t have a pizza stone, place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats. This maximizes the crust's crispiness.
  • Slice Properly: Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife and cut it while it’s still warm for the best results.