The Perfect Brier Hill Pizza Recipe: Bringing Youngstown’s Flavors to Your Table

Introduction

Brier Hill pizza is a beloved regional specialty that originated in Youngstown, Ohio. Known for its unique tangy sauce and homemade dough, this pizza has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Bringing together the classic flavors of Southern Italy with a touch of American creativity, Brier Hill pizza is a must-try for any pizza enthusiast. With this simple yet delightful recipe, you can recreate the magic of Brier Hill pizza in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of pizza dough
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) of whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup of grated Romano cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Begin by making the sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the whole peeled tomatoes to the saucepan, crushing them with your hands as you add them. Stir in the oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. While the sauce is simmering, roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or baking sheet.
5. Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle the Romano and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce, followed by the mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top.
9. Slice the pizza and serve hot, savoring the delicious flavors of Brier Hill pizza.

FAQ

Q: What makes Brier Hill pizza different from traditional pizza?

A: Brier Hill pizza is distinguished by its tangy tomato sauce, which is enhanced with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. This gives it a unique and zesty flavor that sets it apart from traditional pizza varieties.

Q: Can I customize the toppings on Brier Hill pizza?

A: Absolutely! While the classic Brier Hill pizza is adorned with the flavorful tomato sauce and cheeses, feel free to add your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, onions, or bell peppers to suit your preferences.

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. Alternatively, you can make your own pizza dough using a basic recipe of flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil.

Q: What should I serve with Brier Hill pizza?

A: Brier Hill pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or a side of garlic bread to complete the meal.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to conveniently assemble and bake the pizza when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Enjoy the flavors of Youngstown with this delightful Brier Hill pizza recipe, and savor a slice of culinary history in the comfort of your own home.