Neapolitan pizza, originating from Naples, Italy, is more than just a dish – it’s a symbol of Italian culture and culinary craftsmanship. Known for its thin, soft crust, minimal toppings, and incredible flavor, this pizza has earned a UNESCO cultural heritage designation. If you're a pizza enthusiast looking to recreate an authentic Neapolitan pizza recipe at home, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step. From crafting the perfect dough to nailing the cooking technique, here’s everything you need to know.
Neapolitan Pizza Ingredients: What Makes It Authentic?
The authenticity of Neapolitan pizza lies in its ingredients. Here's a list of what you'll need:
1. For the Dough
- 00 Flour: 500g (a fine Italian flour specifically for pizza dough).
- Water: 325ml (room temperature).
- Sea Salt: 10g (essential for flavor balance).
- Yeast: 2g (dry yeast or fresh yeast).
- Optional: A few drops of olive oil (though traditional recipes don’t always use it).
2. For the Sauce
- San Marzano Tomatoes: 1 can (these tomatoes are grown in Italy and are slightly sweet with low acidity).
- Sea Salt: 1 tsp (to season the sauce).
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (for drizzling on the sauce).
3. For the Toppings
- Fresh Mozzarella: 200g (preferably mozzarella di bufala or fior di latte).
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful (for aroma and freshness).
- Olive Oil: For drizzling.
How to Make Neapolitan Pizza Dough
The dough is the heart of any pizza, and Neapolitan dough is no exception. Follow these steps to create the perfect base:
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- Dissolve the yeast in a small amount of warm water (not hot) and let it sit for 5 minutes until it foams. This activates the yeast.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and remaining water while mixing.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Knead the dough for 10–15 minutes by hand or with a dough hook on a mixer. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Let It Rise
- Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise at room temperature for 8–24 hours (the longer, the better for flavor development).
Step 5: Divide and Rest
- Once risen, divide the dough into 2 or 4 equal portions, shape them into balls, and let them rest for another 2–3 hours before stretching.
How to Assemble Neapolitan Pizza
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to assemble your pizza.
Step 1: Stretch the Dough
- Place a dough ball on a floured surface. Using your hands, gently stretch it into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Avoid using a rolling pin to preserve the air bubbles in the crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Blend or crush the San Marzano tomatoes into a smooth sauce. Season with salt and drizzle olive oil into the sauce. Do not cook the sauce; Neapolitan pizza sauce is uncooked for a fresh, tangy flavor.
Step 3: Add Toppings
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the stretched dough, leaving about an inch of space for the crust. Add small chunks of fresh mozzarella and scatter a few basil leaves. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
Cooking Neapolitan Pizza
The hallmark of Neapolitan pizza is its cooking method. Traditionally baked in wood-fired ovens, it requires high heat for a short amount of time.
1. Wood-Fired Oven (Traditional Method)
- Heat your wood-fired oven to 400–500°C (750–900°F).
- Place the pizza directly on the oven floor and cook for 60–90 seconds, rotating frequently for even charring.
2. Home Oven with Pizza Stone
- Preheat your oven to the highest setting, usually 250–300°C (480–570°F), and place a pizza stone or steel on the middle rack.
- Slide the pizza onto the stone and cook for 6–8 minutes until the crust is puffed and golden, with slight charring on the edges.
3. Alternative: Cast Iron Skillet
- Heat a cast iron skillet on the stove over high heat. Cook the pizza base for 1–2 minutes, then transfer it to the oven under a broiler to finish cooking.
Popular Neapolitan Pizza Variations
Neapolitan pizza allows for slight variations while keeping its authenticity. Here are some popular versions:
1. Margherita Pizza
- Topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil.
2. Marinara Pizza
- Tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil (no cheese).
3. Quattro Formaggi (Four Cheese)
- Combines mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, and gorgonzola for a cheesy indulgence.
4. Diavola
- Features spicy salami or pepperoni with tomato sauce and mozzarella.
Tips for Perfect Neapolitan Pizza
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Authentic Neapolitan pizza relies on fresh, top-tier ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala.
- Don’t Overload Toppings: Less is more. Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy and compromise the crust’s texture.
- Invest in a Pizza Stone: A pizza stone or steel helps mimic the high heat of wood-fired ovens.
- Rest the Dough Properly: Long fermentation times develop better flavor and texture in the crust.
- Cook at High Heat: High temperatures are essential to create the characteristic puffy, slightly charred crust.
FAQs: Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
What is the difference between Neapolitan and Margherita pizza?
Neapolitan pizza refers to the style of pizza, while Margherita is a specific topping combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
Can I make Neapolitan pizza without a wood-fired oven?
Yes! A pizza stone or steel in a regular oven preheated to its highest setting can replicate similar results.
What flour is best for Neapolitan pizza dough?
Italian "00" flour is ideal as it creates a soft, pliable dough with a light, airy crust.
How long does it take to cook Neapolitan pizza?
In a wood-fired oven, it takes 60–90 seconds. In a home oven, it usually takes 6–8 minutes.
Can I freeze Neapolitan pizza dough?
Yes! After the first rise, divide the dough into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Neapolitan pizza is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor. By following this detailed guide, you can create an authentic Neapolitan pizza recipe in your own kitchen, whether using a wood-fired oven or a conventional oven. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring a little taste of Naples to your home! For more culinary inspiration, explore more recipes on Kimecopak.ca.
