Pizza Pugliese

Pizza Pugliese is a traditional Italian pizza from the Puglia region, known for its simple yet bold flavors, featuring sweet onions, mozzarella, and tomato sauce on a crispy, thin crust.

Servings: 8 slices

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including dough preparation)

---

Step 1: Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until dough forms.
3. Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

---

Step 2: Pizza Pugliese Toppings & Assembly

Ingredients:

• ½ cup pizza sauce (or crushed tomatoes with olive oil)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Black olives, anchovies, or grated pecorino cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Caramelize the Onions (Optional):
   • Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions over low heat until soft and lightly golden.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Roll out the pizza dough to a 12-14 inch circle.
   • Spread pizza sauce evenly over the base.
   • Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and caramelized onions.
   • Add oregano and black pepper for extra flavor.
4. Bake:
   • Transfer to a preheated baking stone or tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and enjoy hot!

---

Nutritional Values (Per Slice, 8 Servings)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g