19 Italian Pizza Recipe Bbc Good Food Taste The Magic Today!

The Perfect Crust

When it comes to pizza, the crust is the foundation of this delicious dish. In Italy, they take their pizza crust seriously, with many pizzerias keeping their dough recipes a closely guarded secret. But fear not, with a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a crust that is light, crispy, and full of flavor. The key to a good pizza crust is a slow fermentation process, which allows the dough to develop a complex and rich flavor. Flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt are the main ingredients you'll need for your crust, but don't underestimate the importance of high-quality flour and extra virgin olive oil in creating that perfect crust.

Flour Matters

Flour is the backbone of any pizza dough, and choosing the right type can make all the difference. In Italy, they use 00 flour, which is finely ground and has a lower protein content, resulting in a softer and more delicate crust. If you can't find 00 flour, you can use bread flour or a combination of bread and all-purpose flour. The higher protein content in these flours will give your crust a chewier texture, similar to the Neapolitan-style pizza.

The Power of Fermentation

As mentioned earlier, a slow fermentation process is key to achieving that delicious pizza crust. This process allows the dough to rise slowly, developing a complex flavor and making it easier to digest. Allow your dough to rise for at least 24 hours in the fridge, or if you have the time, let it rise for up to 72 hours. The longer the fermentation, the better the flavor will be.

Stretching and Shaping

Once your dough has risen, it's time to shape and stretch it into a round pizza base. This may seem like a daunting task, but with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time. Use your hands to gently stretch the dough into a circular shape, leaving the edges slightly thicker to create a crust. Don't worry if it's not a perfect circle; a rustic-looking pizza is all part of the charm.

The Sauce and Toppings

Now that you have your perfect crust, it's time to add the sauce and toppings. In Italy, simple is best when it comes to pizza toppings. San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese are the classic ingredients used for the sauce and toppings. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Less is more when it comes to toppings, so resist the temptation to overload your pizza.

Into the Oven

For the final step, it's time to bake your pizza. A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy crust and melting cheese. Preheat your oven to its highest setting and place your pizza on a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Buon Appetito!

And there you have it, your very own homemade Italian pizza. With a little time and effort, you can create a pizza that rivals those found in the streets of Naples. So gather your family and friends, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy your delicious pizza. Buon appetito!