Nearly 50% of people are too overwhelmed with work and responsibilities to cook meals, even pizza. Ordering takeout can be a perfect solution for some nights, but it can quickly cut into your wallet and expand your waistline.
Taking the time to prepare pizza dough at home, from scratch, can be a tough order to complete. If you want a shortcut that offers fresh and nutritious bites, you can save time with store-bought dough. Many stores offer delicious dough so you can focus on the toppings.
Check out the info below to learn how to prepare store-bought pizza dough!
1. Prep the Dough to Perfection
Pizza dough cooks best when it's slightly above room temperature, so you'll have to let it thaw if you bought it frozen. The longer it rests, the spongier you can get your crust.
Many people let their dough sit on a cool countertop for about 4 hours before making dinner. If you haven't frozen your dough or live in a hot climate, you can let it rest for as little as 30 minutes.
Skipping the rest period can prevent the gluten in your dough from relaxing. There's a lot you can learn about pizza on our blog, so check it out for updates. For now, take a further look to find the best tips and tricks for pizza preparation!
2. Stretch the Limits
Prepping pizza dough can get sticky and messy, especially if you don't use flour to your advantage. Before you open your dough, gather your pizza tray and cover it with cooking oil or flour to prevent sticking.
If any moisture is inside your premade dough bag, you may need additional flour. Be gentle pulling the dough from the packaging so you don't break it. Although you can manipulate raw dough, you don't want to overwork the flour since it can seize up.
Next, wash your hands and tap them in flour to begin shaping your pizza to a desired shape and thickness.
3. Focus on Shaping Your Pie
Round, rectangle, and heart-shaped pizzas are some of the most popular, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't get creative. Shaping pie can be fun, especially if you learn the skills to toss it around and distribute the dough. Some people use rolling pins, but hands are the best tool for pizza dough since you can feel the texture.
If you're having trouble shaping, start prepping your toppings and give the dough a rest. About 30 minutes can help the flour regain its strength, otherwise, you can try to remove the air, press out edges, and re-ball.
4. Identify What Type of Pizza Oven You're Working With
The steps to prepare pizza dough at home will depend on what type of pizza oven you're using. Crustify Pizza offers wood-fired, gas, and hybrid ovens to ensure you get the best bites possible.
Our team recommends creating a thinner crust while using a wood-fired oven since the temperatures run hotter. If you prefer a thicker and spongy crust, the gas and hybrid ovens will produce the results you're looking for. Whether you have a built-in, countertop, or freestanding oven, you shouldn't have to change your pizza-making process.
What Are the Perks of Each Oven Style?
Did you know that the type of pizza oven you have influences the taste and aroma of your creations?
If you enjoy a smoky flavor on your foods, a wood-fired oven can develop unique pizza bites. Even the most simple pizzas taste amazing in these ovens because of the char and flavor profiles. This is the perfect option for people who enjoy cheese, meat, and Margherita pizzas.
It's important to note, however, that wood-fired ovens pose more risks than gas or hybrid options. By placing your wood-fired oven outside in the backyard, pollution won't accumulate as quickly.
Gas ovens are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor kitchens. Aside from being the safest option, they also develop delicious flavors and an even cook. Hybrid ovens are most suitable for families who want to cook other dishes alongside their pizza.
At Crustify, you can select from a variety of each of these oven styles!
5. Par-Bake Your Pizza Dough
Par-baking is a simple term in recipes and the culinary world. It involves baking something, not to completion, to give the dough a headstart.
Pizza toppings like cheese and vegetables can burn in any oven, while your crust is still raw. If you want to avoid this chewy issue, most homemade pizza tips recommend that you prep the bottom first.
After you get a soft bake on your crust, place it on the counter and add the toppings of your choice. Evenly distribute your toppings so each bite offers the same flavor combinations. Keep in mind that your pan and dough will be hot!
6. Additional Tips & Tricks
Even people who make pizza for a living are still learning useful tips with innovative strategies and new info.
Regardless of which oven you are baking your pizza with, you need to raise the temperatures. A good pizza shouldn't take too long in the oven unless you're trying to make a Chicago or Detroit-style pie.
To improve the taste of your pizza, only use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to meat and cheese. Cheaper and fatty ingredients will increase the grease on the top of the pizza after it's done baking. You should also invest in quality products that keep your oven working properly so you don't waste any dough!
Master the Basics on How to Prepare Store-Bought Pizza Dough
Whether you've got endless time or a ticking clock, pre-made pizza dough can save the day. Learning how to prepare store-bought pizza dough will ensure you get your money's worth and that each bite is delicious.
You can turn a simple store-bought dough into perfection with pizza night preparation. The tips above will ensure you get the ideal cook on your pie so you aren't left with raw dough or burnt cheese (unless you like them well done!).
To get ready to make pies with your family, look at our pizza accessories for the best creations!
