Neapolitan Pizza Recipe

There is nothing quite like the smell of freshly cooked Neapolitan pizza. The scent of the dough, the cheese, and the tomatoes cooking in the oven sends people into a state of bliss. For hundreds of years, the humble Neapolitan Pizza has been a staple of Italian cuisine, bringing families together around the dinner table to share in its deliciousness. But what is it that makes the Neapolitan pizza so special?

The answer lies in its history. The Neapolitan Pizza, as it is known today, was first created in Naples, Italy in the 18th century. It soon became a staple of the city’s cuisine, with its thin crust and simple ingredients making it a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Today, the Neapolitan pizza is still made using the same traditional methods, ensuring its authenticity and flavor are maintained.

In this article, we will be taking a look at the history of the Neapolitan pizza, as well as exploring the ingredients and techniques that go into making it. We will also be providing a step-by-step guide to making your own Neapolitan pizza, as well as some top tips for perfecting your pizza-making skills. So, let’s get started!

The history of the Neapolitan pizza dates back to the 18th century, when it was first created in Naples, Italy. It was originally intended as an inexpensive solution to feeding the city’s poor, and the original Neapolitan pizza was made with just a simple combination of tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. Over time, the recipe evolved to include mozzarella cheese, which was introduced by the Neapolitans in the early 19th century.

Today, the Neapolitan pizza is still made using the same traditional methods, though the ingredients have expanded to include a range of toppings. The pizza is typically served with a thin crust and a simple topping of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. The dough is hand-stretched and tossed, and the pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven for just 90 seconds, ensuring that it retains its crispness and flavor.

When it comes to making your own Neapolitan pizza, the key is to start with quality ingredients. The pizza dough should be made with a combination of high-protein “00” flour and semolina, and the tomato sauce should be made with fresh tomatoes and herbs. The cheese should be a good-quality mozzarella, and the toppings should be kept simple.

To make the dough, combine the flour and semolina in a bowl and slowly add warm water until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes, then cover it with a damp cloth and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes. Once the dough has rested, it can be rolled out into a thin disc, ready to be topped.

To make the tomato sauce, simmer diced tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil in a saucepan until the tomatoes are soft. Mash the tomatoes with a fork or a potato masher, and season with salt and pepper. Spread the tomato sauce over the pizza base, followed by the mozzarella cheese and any other desired toppings.

Finally, the pizza should be cooked in a preheated wood-fired oven at a temperature of approximately 900F. The pizza should cook for no more than 90 seconds, ensuring that the crust stays crisp and the cheese is melted.

Making a perfect Neapolitan pizza requires practice and patience. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, however, you can recreate the classic Italian dish in your own home. Whether you choose to make it for your family or friends, the result will be sure to impress.

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