#### Ingredients
**For the Dough:**
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
**For the Sauce:**
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Toppings:**
- 3 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Additional toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
#### Instructions
**1. Prepare the Dough:**
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the bread flour, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
**2. Prepare the Sauce:**
1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
**3. Assemble the Pizza:**
1. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go (usually around 500°F or 260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a ball.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough ball into a thin circle, about 12-14 inches in diameter.
4. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet dusted with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
**4. Add Sauce and Toppings:**
1. Spread a thin layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3. Add any additional toppings you desire.
**5. Bake the Pizza:**
1. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
3. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
**6. Serve:**
1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Slice and enjoy your homemade New York-style pizza!
#Tips:
- For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
- Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for a more developed flavor.
- Use high-quality tomatoes and cheese for the best results.
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