In season 4, episode 1 of Cooking with the Kriks, we’re excited to share a special family collaboration as Chef Serge Krikorian teams up with his son Brian Krikorian, owner of Different Dough Pizza Co. in Bryant, Arkansas, to reveal the secrets of creating perfect pizza dough. This episode brings together two generations of pizza-making expertise, with Brian sharing professional techniques that home cooks can easily replicate.
The family’s pizza journey began 25 years ago when Chef Serge owned a pizza restaurant, where baby Brian spent his earliest days – literally four days old! – under the counter while customers came and went. Today, Brian has grown into a pizza expert in his own right, crafting artisanal pizzas at Different Dough Pizza Co.
For home bakers looking to create professional-quality pizza dough, Brian shares these key tips:
Ingredients for Two Pizza Dough Balls:
- 500g King Arthur all-purpose flour
- 320g warm water (about 85°F)
- 10g sugar
- 3g active dry yeast
- 10g salt
- 20g olive oil (preferably a buttery variety)
Key Professional Tips:
- Use lower protein flour for shorter proofing times, making the dough easier to handle
- Measure ingredients by weight (grams) rather than volume for precision
- Allow the flour and water mixture to rest for 10 minutes before adding yeast and salt
- Use the “windowpane test” to check if your dough is properly developed
- Employ the stretch-and-fold technique to build strength in your dough
- Proof at room temperature for 12-24 hours for optimal flavor development
The Krikorians emphasize that patience is key when making pizza dough. The mixing process should take about 12 minutes total, with periodic rests to allow the dough to develop properly. Brian demonstrates professional dough-balling techniques that create the perfect tension for an ideal pizza crust.
For those wanting to try this recipe at home, Brian suggests two timing options:
- Make the dough 12 hours before use (minimum)
- Prepare up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor development
Want to see these techniques in action? Check out the full episode on our YouTube channel: Cooking with the Kriks.
For more recipes and cooking tips from Chef Serge and the Vibrant Occasions Catering team, subscribe to our channel and follow us on social media @vibrantoccasionscatering.
Recent Comments