Introduction
Creating the perfect pizza at home is a delightful experience, especially when you have the right ingredients at your fingertips. This article outlines the essential ingredients for a 30cm (12-inch) garlic pizza that you can easily whip up, whether by making your dough from scratch or opting for a store-bought version. With a few simple components, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a deliciously cheesy, garlic-infused pizza.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
**Pizza Base Options**
1 classic pizza dough (wood-fired Italian style)
1 fast no-yeast pizza dough (this is excellent!)
1 store-bought base
**Garlic Pizza Topping**
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp garlic (2 – 3 large cloves), crushed using garlic press or make paste using the side of a knife
1/8 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt (or table salt, or double quantity for salt flakes)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (tightly packed cup), shredded using a box grater
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (tightly packed cup), shredded using a box grater
Prep Time
Preparation for this pizza takes approximately 15 minutes, allowing for the garlic oil to infuse flavors.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: About 23 minutes (includes prep)
Yield: Serves 2-3 people
By keeping these measurements and instructions in mind, you’re ready to enjoy a homemade garlic pizza that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°C / 480°F (230°C for fan oven). Allow the oven ample time to reach this high temperature for optimal cooking.
Prepare Garlic Infused Oil
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with 2 teaspoons of crushed garlic. Set this mixture aside for 10 minutes to allow the garlic to infuse its flavor into the oil.
Prepare the Pizza Base
Select your desired pizza base (classic, no-yeast, or store-bought). If making your own, prepare it according to the chosen method and roll it out until it is about 30cm / 12 inches in diameter. Stretch the dough onto a pizza pan.
Assemble the Pizza
Spread the garlic-infused oil, including all of the minced garlic, evenly over the pizza base, taking care to leave the crust area free of toppings. Sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon of salt over the base, followed by 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese and then 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. If using the no-yeast pizza base, apply a light spray or brush of olive oil to the exposed crust.
Bake the Pizza
Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. Be sure to turn the pizza halfway through (around 4 minutes) to ensure even cooking. Bake until the cheese is bubbly with golden spots.
Cut and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven. Cut it into slices and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Pizza Base Choices
Classic pizza dough (yeast) requires about 5 minutes of hand kneading or using a stand mixer, or a quick 40 seconds in a food processor, along with 4 to 6 hours of rising time across two separate rises. The no-yeast pizza dough is ready in 40 seconds with no rise time necessary. Store-bought options can be chosen; however, ensure they are un-cooked or partially cooked to prevent burning before the cheese melts.
Garlic Preparation
For optimal flavor infusion, it’s best to convert garlic into a paste form. If you don’t have a garlic press, finely mince the garlic and then use the side of your knife to mash it into a paste. Avoid using store-bought garlic paste as it often contains preservatives that can introduce sourness.
Cheese Considerations
Freshly shredded cheese adheres better and melts more effectively compared to pre-shredded cheese found in packets, which often contain anti-clumping agents. If measuring by volume, shred the cheese first then pack it tightly into your measuring cup to avoid ending up short. Alternatively, cut cheese into chunks, weigh it, and then grate.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250°C / 480°F (230°C fan) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the pizza.
Infusing Garlic Oil
To infuse garlic flavor into the olive oil, combine the olive oil and crushed garlic in a small bowl and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Preparing Pizza Base
Stretch and roll out your chosen pizza base into a circle. Ensure it fits well onto your pizza pan or baking sheet.
Applying Toppings
Spread the infused garlic oil evenly over the pizza base, leaving the crust exposed. Sprinkle with salt, followed by a layer of parmesan cheese, and finish with mozzarella cheese.
Baking the Pizza
Bake the pizza for 8 minutes, turning it halfway through, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
FAQ
What are the pizza base options available?
You can choose from a classic pizza dough, a fast no-yeast pizza dough, or a store-bought pizza base.
How can I make garlic paste if I don’t have a garlic press?
Finely mince the garlic using a knife and then use the side of the knife to smear it into a paste.
Why should I avoid store-bought garlic paste?
Store-bought garlic paste often contains preservatives, which can add a sour flavor that may not be desirable in your pizza.
What is the benefit of using freshly shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts and spreads better than pre-shredded cheese, which is often coated with anti-clumping agents that can affect texture.
How can I ensure I have enough cheese for my pizza?
Shred the cheese before measuring it, and pack it tightly into the measuring cup to avoid being short on cheese.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious garlic pizza with your choice of crust has never been easier. Whether you opt for a classic, quick no-yeast dough, or a convenient store-bought option, this recipe ensures a flavorful experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. The combination of garlic-infused olive oil, salty parmesan, and melty mozzarella elevates the pizza to a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Bake it to a perfect golden spot, serve it hot, and savor every bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
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