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How to: Make Your Own Pizza Night – 100 Days of Real Food

Creating your own pizza night at home can be a delightful, interactive experience for friends and family alike. With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can whip up delicious, wholesome pizzas that cater to all tastes. Here’s a guide on how to elevate your homemade pizza night while adhering to the principles of real food, using fresh, unprocessed ingredients.

1. Gather Your Ingredients

The first step to a successful pizza night is assembling a variety of fresh, whole ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• Flour: Use strong white bread flour for a classic base or explore wholemeal flour for a healthier option.
• Yeast: Opt for active dry yeast, which is key to achieving that perfect rise.
• Water: Warm water will help activate the yeast.
• Salt: Essential for flavour.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness to the dough.

For the Sauce:

• Tomatoes: Use canned plum tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, blended until smooth. Look for organic options to avoid additives.
• Herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or a ready-made Italian herb mix for added flavour.
• Garlic: Minced or crushed for that aromatic base.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Toppings:

Encourage variety by offering a plethora of toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Cheeses: Mozzarella, cheddar, goat’s cheese, or fresh buffalo mozzarella.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or artichokes.
• Proteins: Grilled chicken, pepperoni, or plant-based options like marinated tofu.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, arugula, chilli flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for finishing touches.

2. Prepare the Dough

Make the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of flour and 10g of salt on one side and the yeast on the other.
2. Gradually add 300ml of warm water and a tablespoon of olive oil. Mix until it comes together.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and let it rise in a warm place for around 1-2 hours.

3. Create Your Sauce

Make the Sauce:

1. While the dough is rising, prepare your sauce. In a saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil and lightly sauté minced garlic.
2. Add your tomatoes and herbs, and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to cool before using.

4. Preheat the Oven

For the best results, preheat your oven to the highest setting (around 220°C or 450°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well; this will create that crispy base we all love.

5. Prepare the Workstation

Set up a pizza-making station where everyone can get involved. Lay out the dough, sauce, cheeses, and toppings in an organised manner. Offering small bowls for each ingredient will allow people to customise their pizzas easily.

6. Assemble Your Pizzas

Now comes the fun part!

1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into smaller balls – roughly the size of a tennis ball – for individual pizzas.
2. On a floured surface, roll or stretch out the dough to your desired thickness.
3. Transfer the base onto a parchment-lined baking tray or a pizza peel if using a stone.
4. Spread a generous layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a bit of border for the crust.
5. Sprinkle cheese and then let everyone add their chosen toppings.

7. Bake to Perfection

Carefully place your assembled pizzas in the preheated oven. If using a pizza stone, ensure it’s been preheated for at least 30 minutes for optimal crispiness. Bake for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

8. Enjoy and Share

Once out of the oven, let the pizzas cool for a few minutes before cutting them into slices. Serve with a side salad or a simple antipasto platter for a complete meal. Enjoy this lovely cooking experience while sharing tales and laughter with your loved ones.

Conclusion

A DIY pizza night embodies the spirit of 100 Days of Real Food. By using wholesome, fresh ingredients, you not only create a delicious meal but also promote healthier eating habits. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, get creative, and enjoy the delightful process of making and sharing your very own pizzas!