Carl-
In my perfect pizza world the most important part of a pizza is the crust. The best sauce and the most flavorful toppings just won't cut it if it's on a poorly prepared crust. When eating pizza you want the crust to stand out, it's the first thing I savor when I take that first bite. I like it when it supports the toppings on it without flopping. I look for that "snap" when I bite into it. The crust is what gives the pizza texture but also flavor, it's the counterpoint to the tangy, or sweet sauce and the toppings on it. A flaky buttery crust with air pockets, is what really makes a pizza in my opinion, and try to keep it simple. To me a sausage pizza is a culinary delight with each of the ingredients making its own statement. Sometimes too many toppings can just muddle the perfect harmony of a simple pie. It really makes a pizza when the cheese is browned, to add that little caramelization. leaving the mozzarella just slightly melted just doesn't add to the flavor and character of the pizza. And last, my favorite topping, the sausage! Well seasoned with a little fennel to add just enough bite without being overpowering. Sausage should have some fat content to it as to add to the flavorful blend of all the ingredients. A nice sauce ring with the crust acting as a "love handle" makes the perfect pizza to me! Give me a cold beer and a piece of that pizza with some good friends and good conversation and I can say I'm in heaven!
Favorite Pizza: Joe's Italian Villa
