How To Make Your Own: Pepperoni Pizza

What You’ll Need:
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 TABLESPOON grated Parmesan Cheese
•
In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients except the cheese and stirring constantly, heat over medium heat until bubbly. Remove heat and stir in cheese until melted. Set aside to cool before using. Will make TWO 16” pizzas.
•
For the crust:
2 Tablespoons Sugar
3/4 Cup Warm Water (around 100°F)
1 Teaspoon Active Dry Yeast
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
2 Cups (All Purpose) Flour
•
In a stand mixer or a large bowl by hand, combine sugar, and water. Sprinkle yeast over the top of the water and let bloom for about 10 minutes. Add salt, olive oil, flour, and mix to form a dough. Dough Will Be Sticky! Knead by machine for a minute or by hand for 2-3 using only minimal flour to prevent sticking. Put into an oiled bowl and toss to coat and cover with a damp towel. Put into a warm place to rise for about an hour or until double in size.
•
For the pizza:
1 recipe pizza crust
1/2 recipe pizza sauce
2 cups (8oz) mozzarella cheese
3 oz pepperoni
1 tablespoon cornmeal
Optional Ingredients for additional or different toppings of your choice
•
Preheat oven to 500°F Using a 16” inch pizza pan, sprinkle or dust the pan lightly with the cornmeal to prevent sticking. Turn your dough out without punching down and starting in the center and using only your finger tips, press dough out to the edges of the pizza pan, leaving a slight lip around the outside. Spread half the pizza sauce on the top of the crust to about 3/4” of the edge. Top with cheese or whatever topping you choose.
Bake for 7 minutes or until golden brown and toppings are cooked. WATCH CLOSELY!!! It can go from undone to burnt in about a minute! Slice into 8 pieces and serve and enjoy!