Neapolitan Pizza is a traditional Italian dish that originates from Naples and is renowned for its simple yet high-quality ingredients. This exquisite pizza features a soft, chewy crust characterized by a slight char, topped with a vibrant tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves. Its popularity has soared worldwide, captivating pizza lovers with its authentic flavors and artisanal preparation methods. As the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) states, Neapolitan pizza is a culinary art that embodies the rich heritage of Italian culture.” With its commitment to quality and tradition, Neapolitan Pizza stands out as a beloved choice for food enthusiasts everywhere, making it a staple in pizzerias and homes alike. Discover the magic of Neapolitan Pizza and indulge in a slice of history!
Neapolitan Pizza: A Culinary Classic
Neapolitan pizza is one of Italy’s most beloved dishes, originating from Naples in the 18th century. Known for its simple yet high-quality ingredients, this pizza features a soft, chewy crust that is slightly charred, topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The pizza is traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven at very high temperatures, resulting in a unique texture and flavor that is cherished by pizza lovers around the world.
Preparation of Neapolitan Pizza
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| 00 Flour | 500g |
| Water (room temperature) | 325ml |
| Salt | 10g |
| Active dry yeast | 1g |
| Canned San Marzano tomatoes | 400g |
| Fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably buffalo mozzarella) | 300g |
| Fresh basil leaves | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To drizzle |
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, mixing until the ingredients are combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 8-12 hours at room temperature.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a blender, puree the San Marzano tomatoes until smooth. You can add a pinch of salt to taste.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to its highest temperature (usually around 250°C / 482°F) or use a pizza stone if available. Preheat for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the Pizza:
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2-4 equal portions.
- On a floured surface, take one portion and gently stretch it into a disc using your fingers, leaving a thicker edge for the crust.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the surface of the dough.
- Break the mozzarella cheese into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce.
- Add fresh basil leaves to your liking.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Carefully place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven or on the pizza stone.
- Bake for about 90 seconds to 2 minutes, or until the crust is puffy and slightly charred.
- Serve the Pizza:
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a moment.
- Slice and serve hot, preferably with more fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy your homemade Neapolitan pizza!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Neapolitan pizza?
Neapolitan pizza is a traditional Italian pizza characterized by its thin crust, simple ingredients, and wood-fired cooking method.
What are the key ingredients in Neapolitan pizza?
The key ingredients include type 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
How is Neapolitan pizza cooked?
It is typically cooked in a wood-fired oven at high temperatures, around 800°F (430°C), for about 60-90 seconds.
What are the types of Neapolitan pizza?
The most common types are Margherita, Marinara, and Quattro Stagioni, each featuring different toppings.
Is Neapolitan pizza gluten-free?
Traditional Neapolitan pizza is not gluten-free; however, gluten-free options may be available at some pizzerias.
Can I make Neapolitan pizza at home?
Yes, you can make Neapolitan pizza at home using a pizza stone or steel in a conventional oven, though achieving the same results as a wood-fired oven may be challenging.
What is the difference between Neapolitan pizza and New York-style pizza?
Neapolitan pizza has a softer, chewy crust and is typically smaller, whereas New York-style pizza has a crispier crust that can hold larger slices and is often sold by the slice.
Is Neapolitan pizza unhealthy?
Neapolitan pizza can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation; it uses fresh, simple ingredients without excessive toppings.
Where did Neapolitan pizza originate?
Neapolitan pizza originated in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century.
What is the history of Neapolitan pizza?
Neapolitan pizza has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, evolving from simple flatbreads to the pizza we know today.
What is the ideal crust texture for Neapolitan pizza?
The ideal crust for Neapolitan pizza is soft, chewy, and slightly charred, with a light and airy edge.
How is Neapolitan pizza served?
It is typically served whole and eaten with a knife and fork, although some may prefer to fold a slice.
Can Neapolitan pizza be frozen?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, Neapolitan pizza can be frozen, though this may affect the crust’s texture and flavor.
What are the benefits of using San Marzano tomatoes?
San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their sweet flavor and low acidity, making them the preferred choice for authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce.
