Sicilian Pizza Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 02, 2025

21

Share

Sicilian Pizza Recipe: A Taste of Italy in Your Kitchen

Sicilian pizza, or pizza alla pala, is a thick, rectangular slice of cheesy, savory heaven. Unlike its Neapolitan cousin, Sicilian pizza boasts a robust, airy crust and is often topped with simple, yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe will guide you through making an authentic Sicilian pizza at home. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe makes one large rectangular pizza. Feel free to adjust quantities as needed.

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (around 105-115°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and kicking!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Sauce and Toppings:

1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Prepare the Mozzarella: Slice your fresh mozzarella. Thicker slices are great for Sicilian pizza.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or pizza pan.
2. Shape the Dough: Gently punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Use your fingers to stretch and flatten the dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick. Don't worry about perfection; a rustic look is part of the charm!
3. Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
4. Layer the Cheese: Arrange the mozzarella slices over the sauce. Sprinkle with Pecorino Romano cheese if using.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and slice into squares. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Sicilian pizza!

Tips for the Perfect Sicilian Pizza:

• Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your pizza will depend heavily on the quality of your ingredients.
• Don't overwork the dough: Overkneading can result in a tough crust.
• Let the dough rise properly: This is crucial for a light and airy crust.
• Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your pizza and adjust baking time as needed.

Enjoy your authentic taste of Sicily! Buon appetito!