Sicilian Pizza

 Sicilian Pizza.

Discovering Sicilian Pizza

Sicilian pizza, known for its thick, fluffy crust and robust flavors, offers a unique and delicious experience distinct from its more famous cousins. Originating from the island of Sicily in Italy, this pizza is traditionally baked in a rectangular pan, resulting in a shape that sets it apart from the usual round pizzas.

What truly makes Sicilian pizza stand out is its dough. The crust is thicker and airier, often resembling focaccia. This texture is achieved by allowing the dough to rise multiple times, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, chewy interior. Toppings typically include a generous layer of tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, and a variety of strong cheeses like pecorino or caciocavallo.

The beauty of Sicilian pizza lies in its versatility. While the classic toppings are a staple, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying it as a casual meal or serving it at a gathering, Sicilian pizza is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and satisfying texture.

Sicilian Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated pecorino cheese
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 can anchovies, drained (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Pizza:

   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
   • Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased rectangular baking pan. Stretch the dough to fit the pan, pressing it into the corners.
   • Let the dough rest in the pan for about 30 minutes to rise slightly.
   • Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella and pecorino cheeses on top.
   • Distribute the thinly sliced onions and anchovies (if using) over the cheese.
   • Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and pepper.

3. Bake the Pizza:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Sicilian pizza, bursting with flavors and textures that will transport you straight to Italy!