Pizza may have been invented in Naples, Italy, but it was Chicago that turned it into the ultimate comfort food.
Authentic Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
For the Filling:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup black olives, sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Tomato Sauce:
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add melted butter and the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove from heat.
Stir in mushrooms, green bell pepper, and black olives. Set aside.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet.
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to fit the pan, including up the sides. Press the dough into the pan.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
Add the sausage and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese.
Pour the tomato sauce over the filling and spread evenly.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake and Serve:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Rising Time: 1.5 hours | Baking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal per slice (1/8 of the pizza) | Servings: 8 servings
