Step 1 (Make the Dough):
Add the warm water, yeast and sugar in a bowl. Allow to rest for around 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
In a big bowl, put in the flour and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture and olive oil until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and kneed for 5–7 minutes, until smooth.
Add the dough to a bowl greased with olive oil, cover it in plastic wrap or damp towel and let rise for about 1 hour when they double.
Step 2 (Prepare the Sauce):
Combine tomato sauce, olive oil, oregano,(1/2 tsp) garlic powder,( 1/4 tsp) salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 3 (Preheat the Oven):
Leave it to preheat and clean your oven at this temperature 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, preheated in the oven.
Step 4 (Assemble the Pizza):
Work your pizza dough on a floured board to fit the thickness you like.
Place the shaped dough onto a tray or pizza peel (if using a baking/stone).
Spread a light layer of the pizza sauce onto it.
Place the mozzarella cheese evenly over sauce, and then add on your choice of Pepperoni, Mushrooms,Bell pepper ad Onion.
Top with a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 5 (Bake):
Place in oven and bake the pizza for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly around your edges.
Step 6 (Garnish & Serve):
Take the pizza out, sprinkle fresh basil if using and let it sit on low heat 5 minutes before cutting in.
Cut and serve your homemade Maria's Pizza!
