Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza with Giardiniera

### Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza with Giardiniera

#### Ingredients:

**For the Dough:**

- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup vegetable oil

**For the Toppings:**

- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled

- 1 cup Hott Brands Giardiniera, drained and chopped

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 2 cups crushed tomatoes

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Dough:**

   - In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until the dough comes together.

   - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   - Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. **Preheat the Oven:**

   - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

3. **Prepare the Toppings:**

   - In a medium bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

4. **Assemble the Pizza:**

   - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out the dough to fit a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet.

   - Press the dough into the pan, ensuring it goes up the sides.

   - Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.

   - Add the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage on top of the cheese.

   - Spread the chopped Hott Brands Giardiniera evenly over the sausage.

5. **Add the Sauce:**

   - Pour the tomato mixture over the toppings, spreading it evenly.

   - Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the tomato sauce.

6. **Bake:**

   - Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

7. **Cool and Serve:**

   - Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.

   - Serve hot and enjoy the classic flavors of Chicago with a spicy kick from the Hott Brands Giardiniera!

This Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with giardiniera is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the rich traditions of Chicago cuisine with a spicy twist. Perfect for a special meal or gathering!