HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

Indulge in the iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with this homemade recipe. The dough, with its cornmeal addition, provides a perfect foundation for the rich layers of cheese, savory tomato sauce, and any additional toppings you desire. The laminating process ensures a flaky and delightful crust that complements the robust flavors.

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup yellow cornmeal
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• 1¼ cups water, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon + 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup grated onion
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 4 cups)
• Pepperoni (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make:

1. Make the Dough:

• Whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
• Add water and melted butter, mix until fully combined using a dough hook. Knead until glossy and smooth. Alternatively, knead by hand.
• Coat a large bowl with 1 teaspoon olive oil, transfer the dough, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise until nearly doubled.

1. Make the Sauce:

• Melt butter in a saucepan, add onion, oregano, and salt; cook until golden brown. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Stir in tomatoes and sugar, simmer until reduced. Off heat, add basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

1. Laminate the Dough:

• Roll the risen dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, roll into a tight cylinder, then flatten into a rectangle. Fold into thirds and form a ball. Repeat.
• Let dough balls rise in the refrigerator until nearly doubled.

1. Bake the Pizzas:

• Preheat the oven to 425°F. Coat two 9-inch round cake pans with olive oil.
• Roll out each dough ball into a 13-inch circle and transfer to the pans.
• Sprinkle mozzarella over the surface, add toppings if desired, spread tomato sauce, and sprinkle Parmesan.
• Bake until crust is golden brown. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

1. Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is glossy, smooth, and elastic during the kneading process.
2. Sauce Reduction: Simmer the tomato sauce until it reaches a thick and flavorful consistency.
3. Toppings: Customize your pizza with classic choices like pepperoni or your favorite veggies.
4. Resting Time: Allow the pizza to rest after baking to let the flavors meld and the crust set.
5. Serve Warm: Deep-dish pizza is best enjoyed warm, so let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Experience the taste of Chicago in your own kitchen with this delectable homemade deep-dish pizza!