Easy Homemade Pizza Recipe- Onions, Capsicum & Sweet Corn

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Homemade Pizza Recipe – Onions, Capsicum & Sweet Corn

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – who doesn’t love pizza? I remember the first time I tried making pizza at home. It wasn’t pretty! But after a few attempts (and a lot of delicious mistakes), I’ve perfected a recipe that’s easy, satisfying, and totally customizable. This homemade pizza with onions, capsicum, and sweet corn is a family favorite, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a fun weekend activity, or even a casual get-together with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any pizza recipe. It’s designed for simplicity. We’re using instant yeast, which means no waiting around for proofing! Plus, the toppings are classic and crowd-pleasing. It’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen, and honestly, a homemade pizza just tastes…better. Trust me on this one!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create pizza perfection:

• 1 ½ cups flour (approx. 190g)
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast (approx. 3g)
• ¼ cup milk (60ml)
• ¼ cup water (60ml)
• ⅛ cup oil (30ml)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (approx. 4g)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon pizza sauce (approx. 15ml)
• 2 tablespoons chopped lengthwise onions (approx. 20g)
• 2 tablespoons capsicum (in each color) (approx. 20g)
• 2 tablespoons cooked sweet corn kernels (approx. 20g)
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (approx. 56g)
• ¼ teaspoon oregano (approx. 1g)
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (approx. 0.5g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using instant yeast is a game-changer – no need to activate it beforehand. It makes the whole process so much quicker.

For the flour, all-purpose flour works great, but you can also experiment with bread flour for a chewier crust. Maida is commonly used in India for softer textures, but all-purpose gives a nice balance.

Pizza sauce preferences vary across India. Some like it tangy, others sweeter. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own! A little tomato puree with some Italian herbs works wonders.

And finally, mozzarella cheese is the classic choice, but you can definitely experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or a blend. I personally love a little sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra flavor!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Give it a good mix and set it aside.
2. In another bowl, mix the lukewarm water, milk, oil, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Knead for about 5 minutes until you have a smooth, elastic dough. It should feel nice and soft. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. It will almost double in size!
4. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). While it’s heating up, lightly oil a pizza tray and sprinkle it with a little flour.
5. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Roll it out into a thick circle and carefully transfer it to the prepared pizza tray. Use a spoon to create a slightly raised rim around the edges – this helps hold the toppings in!
6. Prick the dough all over with a fork. This prevents it from puffing up too much during baking. Brush the base with a little oil or milk. Bake for 12 minutes, or until it’s golden brown.
7. Remove the base from the oven and spread it evenly with pizza sauce. Sprinkle on half of the mozzarella cheese, then layer on the chopped onions, capsicum, and sweet corn. Top with the remaining cheese.
8. Sprinkle with oregano and chili flakes. Pop it back into the oven and bake at 210°C (410°F) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Slice with a pizza cutter and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overwork the dough! Overkneading can make it tough.
• For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a pizza stone.
• If you don’t have a pizza tray, a baking sheet will work just fine.

Variations

• Vegan Pizza Adaptation: Swap the mozzarella for a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add some roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Pizza Adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking. You might need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re not a fan of spice, reduce or omit the chili flakes. You can always add a dash of hot sauce after baking if you prefer.
• Festival Adaptations: During Christmas or New Year, I love adding a little smoked paprika to the sauce and using festive-shaped cookie cutters to make mini pizzas!

Serving Suggestions

This pizza is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with a side salad and a refreshing drink. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette is always a winner.

Storage Instructions

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQs

What type of flour is best for making pizza dough?

All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour will give you a chewier crust. You can also experiment with maida for a softer texture.

Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

How can I prevent the pizza base from becoming soggy?

Pricking the dough with a fork and baking it for a few minutes before adding the toppings helps prevent sogginess.

What are some other vegetable toppings I can use?

The possibilities are endless! Mushrooms, olives, spinach, bell peppers, and tomatoes are all great options.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, definitely! Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious.