Making pizza at home becomes a delightful experience when you use the best ingredients. With 00 flour, whole tomatoes, and chimichurri, you can create a pizza that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. These ingredients are essential for a light, chewy crust and a refreshing, herb-infused twist that will elevate your pizza game.
In this article, we will guide you through crafting the perfect pizza dough using 00 flour, creating a delicious sauce from whole tomatoes, and finishing it with chimichurri for a flavorful punch.
The Importance of 00 Flour in Pizza Dough
To achieve the perfect balance between a chewy and crispy pizza crust, it’s essential to use 00 flour. This finely milled flour has a higher gluten content, which makes the dough elastic and easier to shape, resulting in that classic Neapolitan pizza texture.
If you’re interested in other creative ways to use high-quality flours like 00 flour, you might want to check out creative sourdough discard uses and tips. Experimenting with different types of flour can really expand your pizza-making skills.
Why Whole Tomatoes Are the Best for Pizza Sauce
When it comes to pizza sauce, whole tomatoes are the gold standard. Unlike crushed or processed tomatoes, whole tomatoes retain their natural sweetness and acidity, which balances the flavors perfectly on pizza. San Marzano or Roma tomatoes are preferred varieties for their rich, less watery texture, ensuring your pizza sauce won’t make the dough soggy.
Using whole tomatoes also allows for better control over the sauce’s texture, whether you prefer it chunky or smooth. You can learn more about how fresh ingredients elevate simple recipes like this by exploring how to activate sourdough discard to create flavorful dishes.
Chimichurri: The Ultimate Twist for Your Pizza
Chimichurri, an Argentinean sauce traditionally used for grilled meats, is an unexpected but delightful topping for pizza. Made from fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, this sauce adds a tangy, herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the tomatoes and cheese.
Drizzling chimichurri over pizza before serving gives it a vibrant kick, balancing out the savory elements with a burst of freshness. For those who love experimenting with new flavors, chimichurri brings a unique and refreshing twist to your homemade pizza.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pizza Dough with 00 Flour
Here’s a simple recipe to help you make the perfect pizza dough using 00 flour.
Ingredients:
- 500g (about 4 cups) of 00 flour
- 1 tsp of active dry yeast
- 1 cup of lukewarm water
- 1 tsp of sea salt
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 00 flour, yeast, and sea salt.
- Slowly add the lukewarm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- After rising, divide the dough into two portions. Roll out each portion to your desired thickness for your pizza crust.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the pizzas for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and crispy.
Best Toppings to Complement Chimichurri and Whole Tomatoes
To complement the tangy freshness of chimichurri, opt for simple, high-quality toppings:
- Fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture.
- Caramelized onions to add sweetness.
- Roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and crunch.
- Grilled chicken or steak to balance out the herbs in the chimichurri.
Be mindful not to overload your pizza with too many toppings, as it can overpower the freshness of the sauce and herbs. Instead, keep it light and let the flavors of the chimichurri and whole tomatoes shine through.
Storing and Freezing Pizza Dough
If you end up with extra dough, no problem! You can easily store it for future pizza nights. Here are some storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store the dough in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze: After the dough has risen, divide it into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator.
Proper storage ensures your dough stays fresh and ready to use, so you can always have pizza dough on hand for a quick meal.
FAQs
What is the best flour for making pizza dough?
00 flour is ideal for pizza dough due to its fine texture and high gluten content, which creates a chewy yet crispy crust.
Why use whole tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for pizza sauce?
Whole tomatoes offer a fresher, richer flavor and a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity compared to processed tomatoes. They also ensure your sauce has the right consistency without becoming too watery.
What is chimichurri, and how can I use it on pizza?
Chimichurri is a fresh, tangy sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar. It works beautifully as a finishing drizzle for pizza, adding a burst of herbaceous flavor that pairs well with the cheese and tomatoes.
Can I freeze pizza dough?
Yes, you can freeze pizza dough for up to three months. Be sure to wrap it tightly and thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.
How do I make my pizza crust crispy?
To achieve a crispy crust, bake your pizza at a high temperature (475°F to 500°F) and use a preheated pizza stone or baking steel for even heat distribution.
Conclusion
Using 00 flour, whole tomatoes, and chimichurri takes your homemade pizza to the next level. The finely milled 00 flour ensures a perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness in the crust, while the freshness of the whole tomatoes makes for a rich, flavorful sauce. Adding a drizzle of chimichurri gives your pizza a tangy, vibrant twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, explore creative sourdough discard uses and tips to discover other ways to elevate your baking and cooking. Happy pizza-making!