Oh pizza, is there a single food more universally beloved in the USA. And then there is sourdough pizza, which might be my favorite food.

As kids, our family made awful pizza, but we didn’t know better and loved our boxed pizza. We used packaged Chef Boyardee mixes that included baker’s yeast and baking soda, so that you did not have to wait for the dough to rise.

But since then my taste buds have matured thanks to Uno’s in Chicago and Fat Daddy’s Pizza in Provo, Utah, where my youngest daughter works. And while those places make great pizza, the dough is not always sourdough and once you’ve tasted the flavor and crunch of REAL™ Sourdough Pizza Crust, it’s hard to go back.

In 2023, Martha Levie, head baker at Abigail’s Oven, shared her recipe for sourdough pizza. Here on YourSourdoughStart.com we have shared a simple sourdough crust recipe and explained the best reasons for making REAL™ Sourdough Pizza

Forty-Six Celebrations for Pizza

And just take a look at the National Day Calendar schedule this year: The National Day Calendar lists several national celebrations of pizza, including:

  1. National Pizza Week is celebrated annually beginning on the second Sunday of January, highlights the popularity of pizza as one of the nation’ s favorite foods; I know that it is one of mine!
  2. National Pizza Day is celebrated on February 9th, this day is a time to enjoy pizza and appreciate the skill that goes into making it. 
  3. National Deep Dish Pizza Day: Celebrated on April 5th, recognizes this unique style of pizza that originated in Chicago featureing a thick crust, layers of cheese, and toppings, often baked in a deep dish pan.
  4. National Pizza Party Day: Celebrated on the third Friday of May, this day is a time to celebrate pizza with friends and family.
  5. National Detroit Style Pizza Day is observed annually on June 23rd 
  6. National Cheese Pizza Day: Celebrated on September 5th, this day is a time to celebrate cheese pizza. 
  7. National Pepperoni Pizza Day is celebrated annually on September 20th, honors this the most beloved pizza topping enjoyed by people of all ages.
  8. National Pizza Month in October gives us 31 days to explore the world of pizza and all the flavors it offers.
  9. National Sausage Pizza Day: Celebrated on October 11th, this day is a time to enjoy sausage pizza. 
  10. National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day: Celebrated on November 12th, this day is a time to celebrate pizza with the works, except anchovies

What is Sourdough Pizza?

Sourdough pizza uses dough leavened with naturally occurring bacteria and yeast in a sourdough starter. This creates a unique tangy flavor and improves digestibility.

Why I Love It

  • Flavor: The fermentation process adds complexity and depth.
  • Digestibility: Easier on the stomach thanks to the long fermentation.
  • Texture: Creates a tender and chewy crust.
  • Easy to Make: You can use your sourdough discard to make the dough.

Does it Taste Sour?

A well-balanced sourdough pizza has a subtle tanginess, not an overpowering sourness.

Making Sourdough Pizza

  • The Process: Similar to bread, but with shorter bulk fermentation.
  • Starter: Typically, 10-20% of the dough is starter, but you can also use a dedicated levain.
  • Refrigeration: Retarding the dough in the fridge enhances flavor.
  • Balling: Shaping the dough into tight balls ensures even proofing.
  • Stretching: Gentle stretching creates a beautiful, open crust.

Cooking

  • Temperature: Higher temperatures (500-600°F) for a crispier crust.
  • Flour: Type 00 flour or high-extraction flours work well.

Essential Tools

  • Pizza Stone/Steel: For optimal heat transfer.
  • Pizza Peel: For easy handling.
  • Pizza Wheel: For clean cuts.

In Summary

Sourdough pizza offers a unique combination of flavor, texture, and ease of making. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, give it a try!

Tell us about your love of sourdough pizza in the comment section below