Neapolitan pizza is more than just a dish; it's a true culinary institution that has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Originating in Naples, this pizza is renowned for its soft dough, slightly puffed edges, and simple yet flavorful ingredients. In this article, we'll explore the secrets of authentic Neapolitan pizza and how to make it at home.

The history of Neapolitan pizza

Neapolitan pizza has its roots in 18th-century Naples, Italy. This dish arose from the need to create a quick, inexpensive, and nourishing meal for workers. Over the years, pizza has become a symbol of Neapolitan culture and has gained worldwide renown. In 2017, UNESCO even inscribed the art of the Neapolitan pizza maker on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The essential ingredients

The success of a Neapolitan pizza depends on the quality of its ingredients. Here are the main elements that make up this iconic recipe:

Pizza dough

Pizza dough is the key element of a Neapolitan pizza. It should be soft inside and slightly crispy outside. To make perfect homemade pizza dough, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of type "00" wheat flour
• 325ml of lukewarm water
• 10g of salt
• 3g of fresh baker's yeast

Tomato sauce

The tomato sauce should be simple and flavorful. Use San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity. Crush them by hand and add a pinch of salt and a few fresh basil leaves.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella di bufala Campana is the cheese used for Neapolitan pizza. Its creamy texture and delicate taste perfectly complement the other ingredients.

Olive oil and basil

A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves add the finishing touch to your Neapolitan pizza.

Preparing the dough

Step 1: Mixing the ingredients

Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm water. Gradually add the flour, then the salt. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Rising the dough

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise at room temperature for about 8 hours, or until it has doubled in volume.

Step 3: Shaping the balls

Divide the dough into balls of approximately 250g each. Let them rest for 30 minutes to an hour before rolling them out.

Assembly and cooking

Step 1: Spread the dough

On a lightly floured surface, flatten each ball of dough by hand to form a disc 25 to 30 cm in diameter. Be sure to keep the edges slightly thicker to achieve the characteristic Neapolitan pizza crust.

Step 2: Adding the toppings

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, then add pieces of mozzarella. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves.

Step 3: Cooking

Neapolitan pizza is typically cooked in a wood-fired or gas oven at a very high temperature (around 485°C) for 60 to 90 seconds. If you don't have access to a wood-fired oven, use your regular oven at its highest temperature, placing the pizza on a preheated pizza stone for optimal results.

Tasting

Neapolitan pizza is best enjoyed immediately after baking. Savor every bite of this delicious creation, appreciating the perfect combination of soft dough, fragrant tomato sauce, and melting mozzarella.

Popular variations

Although the Margherita pizza is the most iconic, other Neapolitan variations are worth discovering:

• Pizza Marinara: Prepared with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano and olive oil, without cheese.
• Pizza Capricciosa: Topped with mozzarella, tomato sauce, cooked ham, mushrooms, artichokes and olives.

Conclusion

Neapolitan pizza is a true culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity with authentic flavors. By following these steps and using quality ingredients, you can recreate this gastronomic experience at home. Whether you're a novice or an expert in the kitchen, Neapolitan pizza is a culinary adventure not to be missed.

Try making your own Neapolitan pizza and share this convivial moment with your loved ones. Buon appetito!