20 Traditional Italian Neapolitan Pizza Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!

The Art of Making the Perfect Dough

Flour, Water, Yeast, and Salt - The Key Ingredients

One of the most important elements of Neapolitan pizza is the dough. In fact, the official Neapolitan pizza association, Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, has strict guidelines for the ingredients and preparation of the dough. The main ingredients are flour, water, yeast, and salt, and the proportions must be precise. The dough is prepared using tipo 00 flour, which is finely ground and has a high protein content, giving the pizza a light and airy texture. The water used must be spring or mineral water, as it adds a unique flavor to the dough. And for the yeast, fresh yeast is preferred over dry yeast, as it adds a distinct flavor to the pizza. Finally, a touch of sea salt is added to enhance the flavors of the dough. Mixing these ingredients together and letting the dough rise for at least 8 hours is the key to achieving the perfect Neapolitan pizza dough.

Hand-Kneading - A Time-Honored Tradition

Another essential aspect of making traditional Neapolitan pizza is the hand-kneading process. This technique has been passed down for generations and is still used by pizzaiolos (pizza makers) in Naples today. Hand-kneading allows the dough to develop a unique texture and flavor that cannot be achieved with a machine. It also requires skill and precision, as the dough must be stretched and folded in a specific manner to create the perfect base for the pizza.

Authentic and Simple Toppings

San Marzano Tomatoes - The Only Choice

When it comes to the sauce for Neapolitan pizza, there is no room for compromise. Only San Marzano tomatoes can be used to make the sauce for an authentic Neapolitan pizza. These tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, have a distinct flavor that cannot be replicated. The tomatoes are crushed, and a pinch of salt is added to create a simple yet flavorful sauce for the pizza.

Mozzarella di Bufala - The Perfect Topping

For the cheese, Mozzarella di Bufala is the only acceptable choice for Neapolitan pizza. Made from the milk of water buffaloes, this cheese has a creamy and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the San Marzano tomato sauce. It is placed on top of the sauce in small chunks, allowing it to melt and spread evenly on the pizza during baking.

Fresh Basil - The Finishing Touch

To complete the toppings, fresh basil is added to the pizza before it goes into the oven. This herb adds a refreshing and aromatic flavor to the pizza, making it a true Neapolitan masterpiece. In conclusion, the traditional Italian Neapolitan pizza recipe is a true representation of the country's rich culinary heritage. From the carefully selected ingredients to the hand-kneading technique, every step of the process is essential in creating the perfect pizza. So, the next time you crave a slice of Neapolitan pizza, why not try making it at home using this authentic recipe? Buon appetito!