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1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Add the oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, powdered milk, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well after each addition until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Pizza Sauce:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and translucent.
Add the diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
Stir in the ketchup and cook for another 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Mini Pizzas:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions to form mini pizzas.
Roll each portion into a small, round shape about 1/4 inch thick.
Place the dough rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce over each dough round.
Add your desired toppings: olives, bell peppers, sausage, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake the Mini Pizzas:
Bake the mini pizzas in the preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for about 12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Freezing Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough for Freezing:
Follow the instructions to prepare the dough and roll it into mini pizza rounds.
Instead of adding sauce and toppings, bake the plain dough rounds in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 3 minutes. This par-baking step helps set the dough.
2. Freeze the Dough:
Allow the par-baked dough rounds to cool completely.
Place the cooled dough rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm (about 1 hour).
Once frozen, transfer the dough rounds to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. To Use the Frozen Dough:
Remove the desired number of mini pizza dough rounds from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Add the sauce, toppings, and cheese to the thawed dough rounds.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Tips
Cheese: Feel free to use a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses for extra flavor.
Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like mushrooms, spinach, or pepperoni.
Dough: Ensure the dough is kneaded well for a soft and fluffy texture.
Conclusion
These homemade mini pizzas offer a wonderful combination of a crispy crust, savory sauce, and delightful toppings. They are perfect for freezing, making them a convenient option for a quick meal. Enjoy the process of making them from scratch, and savor every bite of these delicious mini pizzas!
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