The Ultimate Guide to Sourdough Pizza Dough: Baking Deliciousness at Home

Welcome to the world of sourdough pizza! If you’re a fan of both sourdough and pizza, combining the two is a match made in heaven. But what exactly is sourdough pizza dough, and how does it differ from the regular pizza dough we all know and love? Let’s dive into the details, share some of the health benefits, a fun historical fact, and of course, an easy recipe you can try at home.

What is Sourdough Pizza Dough?

Sourdough pizza dough is a type of pizza dough that uses a natural sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast to leaven the dough. A sourdough starter is a mix of flour and water fermented over time, containing naturally occurring wild yeasts and bacteria. When added to pizza dough, it gives the crust a unique flavour profile—slightly tangy with a more complex taste that develops over longer fermentation times.

How is it Different from Regular Pizza Dough?

The key difference between sourdough pizza dough and regular pizza dough lies in the leavening agent. Regular pizza dough typically uses instant or active dry yeast, which acts quickly to rise the dough. Sourdough, on the other hand, relies on the slow fermentation of the starter. This slower process not only enhances the flavour but also improves the texture of the crust, making it chewier and more flavourful with a delightfully crisp exterior.

Another difference is the fermentation time. While regular pizza dough can be ready in just a few hours, sourdough pizza dough requires a longer rise—often overnight or even up to 48 hours—to develop its full flavour and texture.

Health Benefits of Sourdough Pizza Dough

Sourdough pizza dough isn’t just about taste—it also comes with some health benefits:

1. Easier Digestion: The long fermentation process breaks down gluten, making it easier for some people to digest compared to regular pizza dough.
2. Lower Glycemic Index: Sourdough has a lower glycemic index, meaning it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels.
3. Rich in Probiotics: The natural fermentation process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, which can be good for your gut health.
4. More Nutrient Availability: The fermentation process helps unlock nutrients in the flour, making them more accessible to your body.

A Fun Historical Fact

Did you know that pizza, as we know it, dates back to 18th-century Naples, but the use of sourdough for making flatbreads and similar dishes goes back much further? Ancient Egyptians are believed to have been the first to discover the sourdough fermentation process, and it’s likely that similar methods were used for early forms of pizza. Sourdough is not just a trend—it’s a time-honoured tradition that connects us to the very roots of baking.

Easy Sourdough Pizza Dough Recipe

Ingredients:

• 150g active sourdough starter
• 350g plain (all-purpose) flour, or bread flour for a chewier crust
• 225g water
• 10g salt
• 10g olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, and olive oil.
2. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. After the initial rise, punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place in the fridge, covered, for an overnight rest (8-24 hours).
6. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually 250°C) and place your baking surface (such as a pizza stone or even a cast iron pan like this one from Skitchenau) inside to heat up.
7. Take the dough out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about an hour.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a piece of baking paper, reusable bake liner like this one from Skitchenau or a pizza peel for easier handling.
9. Add your favourite toppings to the dough (see below for ideas).
10. Carefully transfer the topped dough onto the preheated baking surface. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
11. Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, and then slice and serve using Eco Basics Pizza Paddle. Enjoy your homemade sourdough pizza with family and friends!

Five Popular Toppings for Sourdough Pizza

1. Margherita: A classic that never goes out of style. Top your dough with a simple tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and a few basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt before baking.
2. Mushroom & Truffle Oil: Sauté a mix of mushrooms in butter and garlic, then spread them over your pizza dough. Add a drizzle of truffle oil before baking for an earthy, luxurious twist.
3. Pesto & Goat Cheese: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto over the dough, then top with crumbled goat cheese and cherry tomatoes. The combination of the tangy cheese and fresh pesto is a flavour explosion.
4. BBQ Chicken: Spread a layer of BBQ sauce over the dough, add shredded cooked chicken, red onion slices, and mozzarella. Top with fresh coriander leaves after baking for a delicious, smoky twist.
5. Nutella & Strawberry Dessert Pizza: After baking the pizza dough, spread a generous layer of Nutella over the warm crust. Top with sliced fresh strawberries and a dusting of icing sugar. For an extra indulgent touch, add a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you know the basics of sourdough pizza dough, the health benefits, and how to bake it to perfection, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or experimenting with your own topping combinations, sourdough pizza is sure to become a favourite in your home.

Happy baking! 🍕