Homemade Stromboli

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

Assembling the Stromboli:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch border around the edges.
4. Layer the shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, ham, bell pepper, black olives, and any other desired toppings over the sauce.
5. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, ensuring the seam is on the bottom. Pinch the ends to seal.
6. Carefully transfer the Stromboli onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Beat the egg and brush it over the Stromboli’s surface. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for added flavor.
8. Make a few slits on the top of the Stromboli to allow steam to escape while baking.

Baking the Stromboli:

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the Stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve and Enjoy:

1. Slice the Stromboli into thick pieces and serve it warm.
2. You can pair it with additional marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
3. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven for a crispy texture.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with various fillings like different cheeses, vegetables, or cooked meats to suit your preferences.
• Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meats and load up on more veggies and cheese.

Making Stromboli from scratch can be a fun culinary adventure, and the end result is always worth the effort. Enjoy creating this delightful dish in your kitchen!