Pizza lovers know that regional variations can lead to a delightful array of flavors and textures. From Neapolitan to Chicago deep-dish, each style has its unique charm. Among these, Detroit-style pizza stands out with its rectangular shape and a crust that strikes a perfect balance between chewy and crispy.
A Unique Recipe by Kristen Carli
In this article, we share a delicious recipe for Detroit-style pizza created by registered dietitian nutritionist Kristen Carli, MS, RD. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or your next football game. The homemade dough does require some patience, with a total rise time of four hours, but the reward is a light, airy interior and crispy edges that will impress everyone at the table. Pair this dish with a homemade salad or ranch dressing for dipping to create a fantastic meal.
Essential Ingredients for Detroit-Style Pizza
To get started on this culinary journey, you will need the following ingredients:
- Water
- Active dry yeast
- Bread flour
- Salt
- Crushed tomatoes
- Brick cheese (or a mix of muenster and low-moisture mozzarella)
- Pepperoni slices
Preparing the Dough: The Foundation of Your Pizza
Detroit-style pizza is famous for its focaccia-style dough, which offers a delightful thickness and crispy edges. To begin, combine water with active dry yeast in a bowl. Stir the mixture and let it sit for at least five minutes to activate the yeast.
Next, mix the yeast solution with flour and salt in a stand mixer bowl. Use the dough hook attachment to combine the ingredients thoroughly, forming a dough-like consistency. Once the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, you can stop mixing.
Letting the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a dish towel. Place the bowl in a warm area of your home and let it rise for two hours. This step is vital for achieving the desired texture.
Shaping the Pizza
After the dough has risen, stretch it into a 9×13-inch metal baking dish. The choice of pan is crucial for creating those signature crispy edges. Cover the dough again with a dish towel and return it to the warm spot for another two-hour rise. If your dough isn’t rising adequately, consider placing the baking dish in an unheated oven to facilitate the process.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza
Once the dough has doubled in size, preheat your oven to 450°F. Spoon crushed tomatoes over the risen dough, making sure to spread them to the edges. Next, layer the pepperoni slices, followed by cubed cheese on top. This combination of toppings will create a deliciously melty finish.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the pizza edges are crispy. Each bite promises an irresistible chewy and subtly crunchy texture that will make it hard to stop at just one slice.
Serving Your Detroit-Style Pizza
Once your pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a moment before slicing into squares. Serve it with a side of homemade salad or ranch dressing for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a lively game day, this Detroit-style pizza is sure to be a hit!
Final Thoughts on Detroit-Style Pizza
This recipe for Detroit-style pizza is a wonderful way to bring a taste of the Motor City into your home kitchen. Its unique crust and delicious toppings make it a favorite for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making this delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
