Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, take 1 cup of warm water. Add 2 tsp of sugar and stir to dissolve. Then, add 1.5 tsp of yeast, mix gently, and set aside for 5 minutes. The mixture will become frothy, indicating the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2.5 cups of maida, 1.5 tsp of salt, and 2 tbsp of oil. Mix well. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Gradually mix the flour into the liquid to form a sticky dough.

Step 3: Knead and Proof the Dough

Transfer the dough to a clean, floured work surface. Knead for 10 minutes by stretching and folding until it becomes soft, smooth, and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, apply some oil on top, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Cooker

For Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). For Cooker: Add a layer of salt to the bottom of a large pressure cooker and place a stand over it. Remove the whistle from the lid but keep the gasket on. Close the lid and preheat on high flame for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Shape the Pizza Base

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into two portions (one larger for a 12-inch pizza and a smaller one for the cooker). Place the larger dough ball on a greased 12-inch pizza pan and spread it evenly with your hands, forming a slightly raised edge for the crust. Prick the entire surface of the base with a fork.

Step 6: Assemble the Pizza

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over the base. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by some cheddar cheese (if using). Arrange the sliced onions, assorted bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives over the cheese. Top with another generous layer of both cheeses and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Step 7: Bake the Pizza

Oven Method: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake at 450°F (230°C) for 15-17 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cooker Method: Carefully place the smaller assembled pizza on a plate into the preheated cooker. Close the lid (without the whistle) and bake on high flame for 13-15 minutes.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once baked, carefully remove the pizza from the oven or cooker. Let it rest for a minute, then slice using a pizza cutter and serve immediately while it's hot and cheesy.

• Ensure the water for activating the yeast is warm, not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.

• Knead the dough for a full 10 minutes by stretching and folding it to develop gluten, which results in a soft and chewy crust.

• Prick the pizza base with a fork before adding toppings to prevent it from puffing up unevenly during baking.

• For baking in a cooker, use a thick, heavy plate or pan to ensure the base gets a nice, crispy crust without burning.

• Adding cheddar cheese along with mozzarella gives the pizza a beautiful color and an extra layer of flavor.

• You can add chili flakes along with the Italian seasoning for a spicier pizza.

• Customize the toppings with your favorite vegetables like corn, broccoli, or paneer.