Embark on a delightful journey through Ontario's culinary landscape with the iconic Windsor-Style Pizza recipe. Rooted in tradition and celebrated by locals and visitors alike, this unique pizza style offers a distinct taste of the region. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating an authentic Windsor-Style Pizza that pays homage to its heritage and captures the hearts of all who savor it.
Exploring Windsor-Style Pizza :
Windsor-Style Pizza is more than a dish – it's a cultural phenomenon that reflects the vibrant community of Windsor, Ontario. With its square shape, savory toppings, and distinctive crust, this pizza style has earned a special place in the hearts and palates of those who know it.
Ingredients You'll Need :
To embark on your Windsor-Style Pizza adventure, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Cooking Steps :
For the Dough:
1. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out the dough to fit a square baking pan. Place the dough in the pan, pressing it gently to fit the corners.
3. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Layer on the crumbled Italian sausage, chopped green bell peppers, sliced black olives, and sliced mushrooms.
6. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top.
Baking and Savoring:
1. Bake the Windsor-Style Pizza in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
3. Serve and savor the distinctive flavors of Windsor-Style Pizza that reflect the culinary excellence of the region.
The Windsor-Style Pizza recipe invites you to explore the flavors that make Ontario special. By mastering this dish, you're not just creating a pizza – you're celebrating local traditions and embracing the joy of sharing a slice of Windsor with your loved ones. So, roll out your dough, layer on those delicious toppings, and immerse yourself in the culinary charm of this beloved regional specialty.
