Sicilian Pizza: Pepperoni, Tomato Sauce – A Delicious Recipe

Sicilian Pizza Pepperoni Tomato Sauce: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, right from your very own kitchen! Forget everything you think you know about pizza; this isn’t your average triangle slice. We’re talking about a thick, airy, and delightfully chewy crust, generously topped with a vibrant tomato sauce and, of course, the irresistible kick of pepperoni.

Sicilian pizza, or “sfincione” as it’s known in its homeland, boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the island’s culture. Originating in Palermo, it was traditionally a street food enjoyed during religious holidays and festivals. The thick crust, often baked in rectangular pans, was designed to be filling and satisfying, perfect for feeding large crowds. While variations abound, the core elements remain: a focaccia-like dough, a robust tomato sauce, and a generous sprinkling of cheese and other toppings.

What makes Sicilian Pizza Pepperoni Tomato Sauce so beloved? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The soft, pillowy crust provides a delightful contrast to the tangy tomato sauce and the savory pepperoni. The deep-dish style allows for ample toppings, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your liking! Whether you’re a seasoned pizza aficionado or a novice cook, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience pizza perfection!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 500g (about 4 cups) bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 10g (2 teaspoons) instant dry yeast
• 10g (2 teaspoons) sugar
• 15g (2 1/2 teaspoons) salt
• 375ml (1 1/2 cups) lukewarm water (about 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
• 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• For the Sauce:
• 794g (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• For the Toppings:
• 225g (8 ounces) pepperoni slices
• 225g (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)
• Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Make sure the yeast is fresh; otherwise, your dough won’t rise properly. I always check the expiration date!
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the lukewarm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky at this point, and that’s perfectly fine.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Be careful not to add too much, or the pizza will be tough. I like to use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step; it saves a lot of time and effort.
4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will rise. I usually put mine in a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!).
5. Punch Down the Dough: After the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. This helps to redistribute the yeast and create a more even texture.
6. Second Rise (Optional, but Recommended): For an even better flavor and texture, cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to develop even more flavor.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or sugar to your liking. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch more sugar.
5. Cool the Sauce: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help to create a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Grease a 13×9 inch baking sheet with olive oil. Sicilian pizza is traditionally baked in a rectangular pan, which gives it its characteristic thick crust.
3. Stretch the Dough: Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan. Don’t worry if it doesn’t reach all the way to the edges; it will spread out as it bakes. I find it easiest to start in the center and work my way outwards.
4. Dock the Dough: Use a fork to dock the dough all over. This prevents large air bubbles from forming during baking.
5. First Bake (Optional, but Recommended): For a crispier crust, bake the dough for 10-12 minutes before adding the toppings. This par-baking step helps to set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy.
6. Add the Sauce: Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
8. Add the Pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese. You can use as much or as little pepperoni as you like. I like to overlap the slices slightly for maximum pepperoni coverage!
9. Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni, if desired.
10. Bake the Pizza: Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
11. Drizzle with Olive Oil (Optional): Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with olive oil, if desired.
12. Garnish with Basil (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
13. Let it Rest: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from sliding off.
14. Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sicilian Pizza:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the pizza will taste. Use good quality bread flour, crushed tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the dough can result in a tough pizza crust. Knead the dough just until it is smooth and elastic.
• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential for a light and airy crust. Be patient and give the dough enough time to rise.
• Use a Pizza Stone or Baking Steel: A pizza stone or baking steel will help to create a crispy crust. If you don’t have one, you can use a baking sheet.
• Preheat the Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the pizza. This will help to ensure that the crust cooks evenly.
• Don’t Overload the Pizza with Toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Use a moderate amount of toppings to avoid this.
• Adjust the Seasonings to Your Liking: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or sugar.
• Let the Pizza Cool Slightly Before Slicing: Letting the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from sliding off.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Sicilian Pizza: Add your favorite vegetables to the pizza, such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives.
• Sausage Sicilian Pizza: Add Italian sausage to the pizza.
• Spicy Sicilian Pizza: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• White Sicilian Pizza: Omit the tomato sauce and use

  

  Conclusion:

  This isn’t just another pizza recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the vibrant flavors of Sicily right in your own kitchen. The combination of the crispy, airy crust, the tangy tomato sauce, the spicy pepperoni, and that touch of sweetness from the caramelized onions creates a symphony of tastes that will have you craving slice after slice. Trust me, once you try this Sicilian Pizza, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my household – and why I’m so eager to share it with you.

  Why is this a must-try? Because it’s more than just pizza; it’s an experience. It’s the satisfaction of creating something truly delicious from scratch. It’s the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, knowing you’ve put your heart and soul into every bite. And it’s the sheer, unadulterated pleasure of sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted slice of Sicilian goodness. The thick, focaccia-like crust is a game-changer, offering a delightful chewiness that complements the toppings beautifully. The pepperoni adds a welcome kick, while the tomato sauce provides a bright and flavorful base. It’s a pizza that’s both comforting and exciting, familiar yet unique.

  But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to create your own signature Sicilian masterpiece.

  Serving Suggestions and Variations:

  * Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or sprinkle some Calabrian chili oil over the finished pizza for an extra layer of heat.
  * Vegetarian Delight: Skip the pepperoni and load up on your favorite veggies! Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms all work wonderfully. Consider adding some artichoke hearts for a truly authentic Sicilian touch.
  * Cheesy Goodness: While I love the simplicity of mozzarella, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty, savory note. Provolone also melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
  * Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs are your best friend! Sprinkle some fresh basil, oregano, or thyme over the pizza after it comes out of the oven for a burst of flavor and aroma.
  * Drizzle of Delight: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil after baking adds richness and enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
  * Side Dish Pairing: Serve your Sicilian pizza with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pizza. A side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of minestrone soup would also be a delicious complement.
  * Garlic Bread Boost: For an extra indulgent meal, serve with homemade garlic bread. The crispy, garlicky bread is the perfect accompaniment to the flavorful pizza.

  I truly believe that this Sicilian Pizza recipe is a winner. It’s relatively easy to make, incredibly satisfying to eat, and endlessly customizable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Sicily!

  I can’t wait to hear about your experience making this pizza. Did you try any variations? What were your favorite toppings? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Let’s create a community of Sicilian pizza lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy baking!

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  Sicilian Pizza: Pepperoni, Tomato Sauce – A Delicious Recipe

  Thick-crusted Sicilian pizza baked in a rectangular pan, topped with rich tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni.

  Prep Time45 minutes

  Cook Time35 minutes

  Total Time180 minutes

  Category: Dinner

  Yield: 12 slices

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 500g (about 4 cups) bread flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 10g (2 teaspoons) instant dry yeast
  • 10g (2 teaspoons) sugar
  • 15g (2 1/2 teaspoons) salt
  • 375ml (1 1/2 cups) lukewarm water (about 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil, plus extra for greasing
  • 794g (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 225g (8 ounces) pepperoni slices
  • 225g (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)
  • Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

  Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the lukewarm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch Down the Dough: After the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air.
  6. Second Rise (Optional, but Recommended): For an even better flavor and texture, cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes.
  7. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  8. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
  9. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
  10. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  11. Cool the Sauce: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.
  12. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while it preheats.
  13. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Grease a 13×9 inch baking sheet with olive oil.
  14. Stretch the Dough: Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch and press the dough to fill the pan.
  15. Dock the Dough: Use a fork to dock the dough all over.
  16. First Bake (Optional, but Recommended): For a crispier crust, bake the dough for 10-12 minutes before adding the toppings.
  17. Add the Sauce: Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  18. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
  19. Add the Pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
  20. Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni, if desired.
  21. Bake the Pizza: Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  22. Drizzle with Olive Oil (Optional): Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with olive oil, if desired.
  23. Garnish with Basil (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
  24. Let it Rest: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
  25. Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza into squares and serve immediately.

  Notes

  • Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overwork the dough.
  • Let the dough rise properly for a light and airy crust.
  • A pizza stone or baking steel will help create a crispy crust.
  • Preheat the oven fully.
  • Don’t overload the pizza with toppings.
  • Adjust seasonings to your liking.
  • Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing.