Grilling pizza is a delightful way to enjoy pizzeria-quality pies at home, especially during the summer months. The high heat of the grill imparts a smoky flavor and crispy crust that is hard to replicate in a conventional oven. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of grilled pizza.
Step 1: Choose the Right Day
Begin by selecting a day with favorable weather conditions. Ideally, plan to make your dough at least a day in advance. For instance, a sunny, warm day can set the perfect backdrop for grilling. By the time you’re ready to start, the temperature should be comfortable for outdoor cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
The foundation of any great pizza is its dough. A New York-style pizza dough recipe works well for grilling. Prepare the dough the night before and allow it to rise in the refrigerator overnight. Before grilling, let the dough come to room temperature for easier handling. If you’re concerned about stretching the dough, reducing the hydration slightly can make it more manageable.
Step 3: Gather Your Ingredients
Grilled pizza cooks quickly, often in under a minute per side, depending on the grill’s heat. To ensure a smooth process, have all your ingredients prepped and within reach. This includes sauces, cheeses, vegetables, meats, and any other toppings you plan to use. Being organized will help you assemble the pizza swiftly once the dough is on the grill.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Set up your grill for direct heat cooking. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to create a hot zone for searing the dough and a cooler zone for melting the toppings. For gas grills, preheat to a high temperature, ensuring the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Dough
Place the stretched dough directly onto the hot grill grates. Allow it to cook for about 1-2 minutes until the underside develops grill marks and the dough begins to set. Using tongs or a spatula, flip the dough over. Quickly add your prepared toppings, starting with cheese, followed by sauce. Return the pizza to the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the pizza from the grill. Let it rest for a minute before slicing to allow the toppings to set. Serve immediately and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Additional Tips
- Dough Consistency: A slightly firmer dough is preferable for grilling, as it holds up better on the grill grates.
- Topping Selection: Opt for toppings that cook quickly and release minimal moisture to prevent sogginess. Pre-cooked vegetables, cured meats, and cheeses like mozzarella or fontina are excellent choices.
- Grill Maintenance: Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat and prevent flare-ups.
- Safety First: Always use appropriate tools and handle the grill with care to ensure a safe cooking experience.
