Perfect Pepperoni Recipe

5 Points Pizza

1. 1

   Prepare garlic confit

   In a small saucepan, simmer garlic cloves in olive oil on low heat for 30-40 minutes until soft and sweet. Remove cloves and reserve 1/2 cup garlic confit in the oil to spread on the dough.

2. 2

   Bloom yeast

   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (1.5 cups), sugar, and Active dry yeast; let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy.

3. 3

   Make dough

   Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Oil the dough lightly and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60-90 minutes.

4. 4

   Preheat oven and prep surface

   Place a pizza stone on the middle rack and preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) for 40-45 minutes. Sprinkle cornmeal on a pizza peel or a baking sheet.

5. 5

   Assemble the pizza

   Punch down dough and roll into a 12–14 inch circle. Transfer to the prepared surface. Spread pizza sauce in a thin layer. Scatter mozzarella evenly. Arrange pepperoni slices. Dot with garlic confit (reserve some oil to brush lightly) and drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the top.

6. 6

   Bake and finish

   Bake 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven; sprinkle chopped cilantro over the hot pizza and drizzle with a touch more olive oil if desired. Slice and serve.