One-Hour Pizza
The easiest, cheapest, no-knead dough that takes less than 1 hour to proof. Perfect for a fast, cheap, and delicious homemade pizza night.
Serves: 4
Cost: Dough approx $1.00 NZD / $2.00 per person with toppings
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (mostly proofing)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
350g plain flour
225ml lukewarm water
6g dried yeast (1½ tsp), dissolved in 1 tbsp warm water
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp oil
For the Toppings:
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes, mixed with a pinch of salt
Your choice of cheese, salami, ham, vegetables, etc.
Method
In a bowl, combine the flour, lukewarm water, dissolved yeast, salt, and oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead by hand for just 1 minute.
Cover the bowl and let the dough proof at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Oil a large baking tray. Gently press or roll the dough out to fit the tray (for one large pizza) or divide it for two medium pizzas.
Spread the seasoned crushed tomatoes over the dough base to prevent it from drying out. Let it proof for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 220°C. Bake the base with the tomato sauce for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven, add your remaining toppings, and bake for another 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the base is golden.
Tips
Sticky dough: The dough will be sticky—this is normal and helps create a light crust. Use oiled hands to handle it.
Proofing: Letting the dough rise twice (once in the bowl, once on the tray) is key for a good texture.
Pre-bake: Partially baking the base with the sauce first ensures a crisp crust that won't get soggy under the toppings.
Customise: Use whatever toppings you have on hand. Leftover roasted vegetables or cooked meats work perfectly.
