New York Pizza Slice

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Slowly add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
2. Make the sauce
   While dough is rising, drain and crush the tomatoes by hand in a bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and let sit at room temperature to develop flavors. The sauce should remain uncooked before going on the pizza.
3. Shape the dough
   After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into two equal portions for two 14-inch pizzas. On a floured surface, stretch each portion by hand, working from the center outward. Avoid using a rolling pin as it removes air bubbles. Aim for a thin center with slightly thicker edges.
4. Preheat and prepare
   Place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) for at least 30 minutes. Dust a pizza peel or another inverted baking sheet with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
5. Top the pizza
   Transfer the stretched dough to the prepared peel. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese, then add a light dusting of Pecorino Romano on top.
6. Bake to perfection
   Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly with some charred spots. The bottom should be crisp enough to hold its shape when lifted.
7. Finish and serve
   Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. If using, tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the top. Slice into 8 triangular pieces and serve immediately. For the authentic New York experience, fold your slice lengthwise before eating.