Old school Sicilian style pizza

The Pinnacle of Sicilian Gastronomy: Unveiling the Timeless Mastery of Old School Sicilian-Style Pizza

A Culinary Odyssey into Sicilian Heritage

Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-soaked island of Sicily, where the aroma of Old School Sicilian-Style Pizza wafts through the cobblestone streets. In this gastronomic exploration, we’ll dive deep into the artistry of crafting this timeless pizza, celebrating the rich flavors and traditions that have made it a beloved classic. From the first knead of the dough to the final slice, let’s discover the secrets that make Sicilian pizza an iconic masterpiece.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Sicilian Flavors

For the Dough:

• 4 cups bread flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions: Crafting Sicilian Perfection

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Creating the Sauce

1. In a blender, combine whole peeled tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Simmer the sauce in a saucepan for 20-30 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Step 3: Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Spread the risen dough onto an oiled baking sheet, pressing it to the edges.
3. Cover the dough with the tomato sauce, leaving a small border for the crust.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Pecorino Romano evenly over the sauce.
5. Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle olive oil over the top.

Step 4: Baking Sicilian Bliss

1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Cook Notes: Honoring Sicilian Traditions

• Use high-quality Pecorino Romano for an authentic Sicilian flavor.
• Allow the dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator for a more complex taste.
• Experiment with different olive oils for a nuanced finish.

Variations: Elevating the Sicilian Experience

Sicilian Caponata Pizza:

• Top the pizza with caponata, a Sicilian eggplant relish, after baking.

Seafood Sensation:

• Add a medley of fresh seafood such as shrimp, clams, and mussels.

Vegetarian Delight:

• Load up on roasted vegetables like bell peppers, artichokes, and cherry tomatoes.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions: A Healthier Slice of Sicily

Keto Sicilian-Style Pizza:

• Replace bread flour with almond flour or coconut flour in the dough.
• Use a sugar-free tomato sauce and opt for low-carb toppings like sausage, olives, and spinach.

Low-Carb Cauliflower Crust Sicilian Pizza:

1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor and steam until tender.
2. Mix with egg, cheese, and seasonings to form a crust.
3. Bake before adding Sicilian toppings.

A Slice of Sicilian Legacy

As you savor each bite of the crisp, golden crust and the harmonious medley of Sicilian flavors, you’re not just enjoying pizza; you’re experiencing a culinary legacy. Old School Sicilian-Style Pizza transcends trends, offering a timeless taste of tradition that resonates from the heart of Sicily to your kitchen. So, immerse yourself in the artistry of Sicilian pizza-making, celebrate the simplicity of its ingredients, and relish in the enduring legacy of this culinary masterpiece