Numero Uno Pizza is a popular pizzeria chain that has been serving up delicious pies since 1973. Their signature recipe has become a favorite among pizza lovers across the country, and many have tried to replicate it at home. In this article, we will explore the secrets behind Numero Uno’s famous pizza recipe and show you how to make it in your own kitchen.
One of the key factors that sets Numero Uno’s pizza apart from other pies is their unique crust. It is thick, chewy, and has a slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the tangy tomato sauce and savory toppings. To achieve this texture, the dough is made with a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour, and is allowed to rise twice before baking.
Another important aspect of Numero Uno’s pizza is the quality of the ingredients. They use only the freshest produce, meats, and cheeses, and their sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy. By using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare the dough and toppings properly, Numero Uno has created a pizza that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Ingredients
For the perfect Numero Uno pizza, you need to have the right ingredients. Below are the three main ingredients that you need to make this delicious pizza:
Dough
The dough is the foundation of any great pizza. For the Numero Uno pizza, you will need:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
Sauce
The sauce is what gives the pizza its flavor. For the Numero Uno pizza, you will need:
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
The toppings are what make the pizza unique. For the Numero Uno pizza, you can add any of the following toppings:
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup sliced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
Preparation
Before making the Numero Uno Pizza, it is important to prepare the dough, sauce, and toppings. This section will cover the three main steps in preparing the pizza.
Preparing the Dough
To make the perfect pizza dough, start by mixing flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and warm water in a large bowl. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for at least an hour.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a round shape and place it on a floured surface. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Making the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of the pizza, and it is important to make it just right. Start by blending canned tomatoes, garlic, salt, sugar, and olive oil in a blender until it becomes smooth. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and add fresh basil and oregano. Mix well and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assembling the Pizza
Once the dough and sauce are ready, it is time to assemble the pizza. Preheat the oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up. Place the rolled-out dough on a piece of parchment paper and spread the sauce evenly over the dough. Add your favorite toppings, such as mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions. Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking
Once the dough has been prepared and the toppings have been added, it’s time to cook the pizza. There are a few different methods for cooking pizza, but baking is the most common. Here’s how to bake your Numero Uno pizza:
Baking the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your crust crispier, you can bake it for a few extra minutes.
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have an oven, or if you want to try something different, there are a few alternative methods for cooking pizza:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the pizza directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pizza in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Microwave: While not ideal, you can cook a pizza in the microwave if you’re short on time. Place the pizza on a microwave-safe plate and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on the pizza to avoid burning it.
Tips and Tricks
When making Numero Uno Pizza, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked pizza every time.
Firstly, it is important to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables, meats, and cheeses will not only taste better but will also cook more evenly. Additionally, using a high-quality pizza dough recipe that is well-kneaded and allowed to rise properly will result in a better crust.
Another important tip is to preheat the oven and pizza stone or baking sheet before adding the pizza. This will help ensure that the crust cooks evenly and does not become soggy. It is also recommended to bake the pizza on the lowest oven rack to help the crust cook more evenly.
When adding toppings, it is important not to overload the pizza. Too many toppings can result in a soggy crust and uneven cooking. It is best to use a light hand when adding sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Finally, when the pizza is finished cooking, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the cheese and toppings set and prevent them from sliding off the pizza.
Conclusion
The Numero Uno Pizza recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make pizza that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are entertaining guests or simply looking for a quick and tasty meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
With its crispy crust, savory sauce, and flavorful toppings, the Numero Uno Pizza is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more. The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a great option for picky eaters.
Overall, the Numero Uno Pizza recipe is a must-try for any pizza lover. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a delicious homemade pizza in no time. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
Latest post’s