The Ultimate Guide to DIY Grilled Pizza
Pizza is a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether it’s a classic Margherita or a loaded meat lovers, there’s just something about the combination of sauce, cheese, and toppings that makes it irresistible. While most of us are used to ordering pizza for delivery or dining out at our favorite pizzerias, there’s a new trend that’s taking the pizza world by storm – grilled pizza.
Grilling pizza adds a unique smoky flavor and a crispy texture to the crust that you just can’t achieve with a conventional oven. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive way to cook that is perfect for gatherings and outdoor parties. If you’re ready to embark on a DIY grilled pizza adventure, here’s the ultimate guide to get you started.
The Dough:
The foundation of any good pizza is the dough. You can either make your own homemade dough or buy pre-made pizza dough from your local grocery store. If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own dough allows for more customization and creativity. There are countless dough recipes online, ranging from the classic Neapolitan style to gluten-free and whole wheat options.
Prepping the Grill:
Before you start grilling, it’s crucial to prep your grill for the task. Clean the grates thoroughly and preheat the grill to high heat. You can also lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Using a pizza stone or a pizza steel on your grill will help distribute the heat evenly and ensure a crispy crust.
Toppings Galore:
Next comes the fun part – choosing your toppings! Grilled pizza offers endless possibilities when it comes to toppings. You can go for traditional options like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil or get more adventurous with ingredients like brie, figs, and prosciutto. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new! Just remember to keep the toppings relatively light to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
Assembly and Grilling:
Once all your ingredients are ready, it’s time to assemble your pizza. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness and shape, then transfer it onto a pizza peel or a lightly floured cutting board. This will help with sliding the pizza onto the grill. If you’re worried about the dough sticking, you can brush olive oil on both sides of the dough.
Carefully transfer the dough onto the preheated grill, directly on the grates or the pizza stone. Cook for a few minutes until you see grill marks and the dough starts to bubble. Carefully flip the dough over using tongs or a spatula.
Now comes the fun part – adding the toppings! Spread your sauce, cheese, and toppings onto the cooked side of the dough. Close the grill lid and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese melts and the crust is cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pizza is done, carefully transfer it off the grill onto a cutting board. Let it cool for a minute or two before slicing it into desired portions. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
Grilled pizza is a delicious, customizable, and fun way to enjoy this beloved dish. With the tips and tricks mentioned in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of DIY grilled pizza. So fire up that grill, grab your favorite ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of smoky, crispy heaven.
