Sourdough pizza dough is made using a sourdough starter, which is a fermented mixture of flour and water that contains wild yeast and bacteria. This type of dough typically requires a longer fermentation period compared to traditional pizza dough, allowing the sourdough culture to develop flavors and improve the dough’s texture. It tends to have a slightly tangy flavor and can result in a crust that is chewier and more flavorful than regular pizza dough. Sourdough pizza is popular among those who enjoy the depth of flavor and texture that sourdough fermentation brings to baked goods.

To make sourdough pizza dough, you’ll need a sourdough starter and a few basic ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 3 cups bread flour (you can also use all-purpose flour)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and lukewarm water. Stir until well mixed.
   • Add the flour and salt to the bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
3. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
   • Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
   • Let the dough rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The exact time will depend on the temperature of your kitchen and the activity of your sourdough starter.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles.
   • Divide the dough into two equal portions (for two large pizzas) or four portions (for smaller pizzas).
   • Shape each portion into a ball and let them rest on a lightly floured surface, covered with a towel, for about 15-30 minutes.
5. Prepare for Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible (usually around 500°F/260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
   • If using a pizza stone, sprinkle it with cornmeal or semolina flour to prevent sticking.
6. Stretch and Top the Pizza:
   • Take one dough ball and gently stretch or roll it out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
   • Transfer the stretched dough to a piece of parchment paper or a well-floured pizza peel.
7. Bake the Pizza:
   • Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings to the dough.
   • Slide the pizza (with the parchment paper if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade sourdough pizza! Adjust the toppings and flavors to suit your preferences for a delicious and tangy crust.