The Frugal Gourmet's Southern Barbecue Sauce

Margherita Bread




Margherita bread is a delicious and easy-to-make flatbread that is perfect for a quick snack or light meal. It is made with a simple dough that is flavored with fresh herbs and topped with a simple tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup warm water (105°F-115°F)

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing on the dough

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.

  2. Stir in the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of the flour. Stir until a dough forms.

  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

  5. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

  6. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out each half into a 12-inch circle.

  7. Brush each circle of dough with olive oil.

  8. Spread the diced tomatoes evenly over each circle of dough.

  9. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, basil, salt, and pepper evenly over the tomatoes.

  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  11. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks:

  • For a crispier crust, brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with cornmeal before baking.

  • For a more flavorful bread, add 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the dough.

  • Serve the bread with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, pesto, or hummus.

Here are some additional tips and tricks for making the best margarita bread:

  • Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients for the most accurate results.

  • Make sure your water is the correct temperature. If it is too hot, the yeast will be killed. If it is too cold, the yeast will not activate.

  • Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This will help to develop the gluten in the dough, which will give the bread its structure.

  • Let the dough rise in a warm place. A good place to do this is in your oven with the light on.

  • Don't overbake the bread. The bread is done when it is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

With these tips, you'll be making delicious margarita bread that everyone will love!


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