Choosing the Right Dutch Oven

Before you start making your pizza, it's important to choose the right dutch oven. Look for a cast iron dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. This will help create a crispy crust and even cooking. Make sure the size of the dutch oven is suitable for the size of pizza you want to make.

Preparing the Dough

The key to a delicious pizza starts with the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and water. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise for at least an hour.

Creating the Pizza Sauce

While the dough is rising, you can prepare the pizza sauce. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to develop the flavors.

Assembling the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, it's time to assemble your pizza. Lightly grease the dutch oven with olive oil. Stretch the dough to fit the bottom of the dutch oven and slightly up the sides. Spread a generous amount of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Add your favorite toppings such as cheese, pepperoni, vegetables, or herbs.

Baking the Pizza

Now that your pizza is assembled, it's time to bake it in the dutch oven. Place the lid on the dutch oven and carefully transfer it to a preheated oven or over a campfire with hot coals. Bake the pizza for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.