20 Pizza Margherita Original Italian Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
The pizza margherita is a classic and beloved Italian dish that has become popular all over the world. Originating from Naples, Italy, this pizza is made with fresh and simple ingredients, allowing the flavors to shine through. The original recipe has stood the test of time and has become a staple in many households and restaurants. Let's take a deeper look into the history and ingredients of this iconic dish.
The pizza margherita is said to have been created in 1889 by a Neapolitan pizzaiolo (pizza maker) named Raffaele Esposito. It is said that he was commissioned by the Queen of Italy, Margherita of Savoy, to create a special pizza for her visit to Naples. Legend has it that Esposito used the colors of the Italian flag as inspiration for the toppings, using fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil to represent the red, white, and green of the flag. The queen was so pleased with the pizza that it was named after her, and the rest is history.
The Ingredients of Authentic Pizza Margherita
Quality is Key
The key to making a delicious pizza margherita lies in the quality of the ingredients. The original recipe calls for San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and low-acid flavor. These tomatoes are grown in the volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius and are essential for creating the perfect sauce for the pizza. The cheese used is fresh mozzarella di bufala, made from the milk of water buffalo. This cheese is softer and creamier than regular mozzarella and adds a unique flavor to the pizza. Lastly, fresh basil leaves are used to top off the pizza, adding a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.
The Importance of Simplicity
One of the reasons why the pizza margherita has stood the test of time is because of its simplicity. The ingredients used are minimal, allowing the flavors to speak for themselves. The dough is also an important element, made with only flour, water, yeast, and salt. The pizza is traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a crispy and slightly charred crust. This simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients is what makes the pizza margherita so beloved.
In Conclusion
The pizza margherita is a true representation of Italian cuisine, showcasing the beauty and simplicity of fresh ingredients. Its popularity has spread all over the world, and while there may be variations, the original recipe remains a favorite among pizza lovers. So next time you're craving a taste of Italy, why not try making a pizza margherita at home using authentic and high-quality ingredients? Buon appetito!
