PIZZA A LA PIEDRA EN CASA. UNA MARAVILLA !!!!

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making pizza a la piedra (stone-baked pizza) at home. You’ll learn how to prepare the dough using a preferment method, ensuring a flavorful and crispy pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria. Let’s get started and turn you into a master pizzaiolo!

Step 1: Prepare the Preferment

The first step in achieving the perfect pizza dough is to create a preferment, which enhances the flavor and texture of the dough.

1. Gather your ingredients:

   • 100 grams of strong flour (without baking powder)
   • 100 grams of water
   • 2 grams of instant yeast

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and the instant yeast.

3. Gradually add the water while stirring until you achieve a consistent mixture.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it sit at room temperature for approximately 1 to 2 hours until bubbly and expanded.

Step 2: Make the Pizza Dough

Once your preferment is ready, it’s time to mix the pizza dough.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • 200 grams of the prepared preferment
   • 600 cc of cold water
   • 1 kg of strong flour
   • 20 grams of salt

2. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Pizza

After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into pizzas.

1. Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 250-300°C or 482-572°F).

2. Divide the risen dough into 2 or 3 equal pieces, depending on your preferred pizza size.

3. On a floured surface, gently stretch or roll out each piece of dough into your desired pizza shape (round or rectangular).

4. Transfer the shaped dough onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

Now it’s time to add your favorite toppings and bake your pizza.

1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

2. Add your choice of toppings such as cheese, vegetables, meats, or herbs.

3. Carefully slide the pizza onto a preheated pizza stone or directly onto the oven rack.

4. Bake for 8-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Pizza

Once your pizza is done baking, it's time to enjoy:

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute.

2. Slice the pizza and serve it hot.

3. Pair it with your favorite drink or side.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made pizza a la piedra at home. Remember to experiment with different toppings and techniques to find your perfect pizza style. Enjoy the process and share your homemade creations with friends and family!