Neapolitan Pizza: 10 Secrets of Authentic Italian Pizza You Need to Know

The Neapolitan Connection: Pizza’s Birthplace

In the labyrinthine lanes of Naples, the tantalizing aroma of baking dough, fresh tomatoes, and melting cheese tells a tale as old as time. This is the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, an age-old recipe passed down through generations. The history of Neapolitan pizza is as rich and flavorful as the dish itself, intertwined with the life and growth of Naples, Italy’s third-largest city.

The story begins in the late 18th century when resourceful Neapolitan peasants started topping their flatbread with tomatoes, a New World plant just introduced to Europe. This humble dish quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple food for the locals and, eventually, a global sensation. Indulge in the authenticity of Italian food and learn more about the vibrant history of pizza in Naples.

Unveiling the Secrets: The Unique Aspects of Neapolitan Pizza

Neapolitan pizza stands out from the crowd of global pizza variations, thanks to its unique characteristics that adhere to centuries-old traditions. The first of its kind, this dish has set a standard of pizza-making that is revered and protected.

In fact, the traditional Neapolitan pizza has received the prestigious Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) status from the European Union, meaning that a pizza can only be labeled “Neapolitan” if it meets specific, traditional production methods and ingredients. Its distinct features include a soft, thin center with a thicker, chewier crust, simple yet high-quality ingredients, and a quick cooking time in a blistering hot wood-fired oven.

Ready to uncover the secrets of this iconic dish? Let’s embark on a journey through the rich flavors of Italy’s legendary culinary tradition.

Secret 1: The Power of Simplicity in Ingredients

When it comes to Neapolitan pizza, less is indeed more. The brilliance of this dish lies in its simplicity, with just a handful of traditional ingredients coming together to create a symphony of flavors. The traditional Margherita variant, for example, only requires dough, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and extra-virgin olive oil.

But don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients. Each component of a Neapolitan pizza is meticulously selected for its quality and authenticity. This focus on minimalism and quality lets each ingredient shine and enables a harmonious balance of flavors, making every bite of Neapolitan pizza an experience to savor.

Secret 2: The Art of Neapolitan Dough Making

Making Neapolitan pizza dough is an art that has been perfected over generations. Its preparation requires only four ingredients – water, salt, yeast, and wheat flour. However, the trick lies in the method. The dough is kneaded and left to rise for at least 6 hours, sometimes even up to 24 hours, allowing it to develop its signature texture and flavor. Unlike other types of pizza, Neapolitan pizza dough is hand-stretched, never rolled with a rolling pin, to retain the dough’s elasticity and softness.

This process results in the unique Neapolitan pizza base – thin in the middle, with a puffy and slightly charred cornicione (crust). It’s this precise method of making the dough that provides the perfect canvas for the traditional toppings, offering a taste of Naples with each mouthful. Continue on this path to discover more secrets of authentic Italian pizza.

Secret 3: The Perfect Oven Temperature

In the world of Neapolitan pizza, precision matters. One of the critical elements ensuring the dish’s unique texture and flavor is the perfect oven temperature. A Neapolitan pizza is traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven that can reach up to a staggering 485°C (905°F)! This intense heat is no accident; it’s essential for achieving the characteristic slightly charred crust and the soft, almost soupy center in a surprisingly quick cooking time—usually just 60-90 seconds.

This secret of the perfect oven temperature is what gives Neapolitan pizza its distinct finish, an experience you’ll want to unlock the secrets of Italian cuisine with our Tortellini.

Secret 4: The Unique Cooking Method

The unique cooking method of Neapolitan pizza is an art form passed down through generations, reflecting the culinary traditions of Naples. This secret is not just about the ingredients or the high oven temperature, but also the skilled pizza artisans, known as pizzaioli. They expertly hand-stretch the dough, layer on the quality ingredients, and slide the pizza into a blistering hot wood-fired oven using a long-handled paddle or ‘peel’.

Once in the oven, the pizza is expertly rotated to ensure even cooking. This artisanal cooking method is integral to the authenticity of Neapolitan pizza. It’s a culinary spectacle, one that would make you appreciate the depth and complexity of Italian cooking just like when you dive into a plate full of delicious Ravioli.

Secret 5: Mozzarella Di Bufala – The Special Cheese

Cheese is an integral part of any pizza, but when it comes to Neapolitan pizza, it’s not just any cheese. The secret here is Mozzarella di Bufala, a creamy, soft cheese made from the milk of domestic water buffalo in the Italian regions of Campania, Lazio, Apulia, and Molise.

This cheese lends a unique, slightly tangy flavor and a wonderfully moist texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients. In a sense, it’s as distinctive as the richness of traditional Osso Buco. Just remember, when making pizza from Naples at home, using Mozzarella di Bufala can make all the difference.

Secret 6: The Magic of San Marzano Tomatoes

Nestled in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, the fertile plains of San Marzano are home to arguably the finest tomatoes in the world. Recognizable by their elongated shape, these tomatoes offer a balance of acidity and sweetness, coupled with a dense, meaty texture, which makes them perfect for pizza sauce.

Authentic Neapolitan pizza celebrates these tomatoes, using them either crushed or as a simple sauce, enhancing the pizza with a vibrant, fresh flavor that you’d love to indulge in, like a creamy bite of Risotto Milanese. This is the magic of San Marzano tomatoes, the secret ingredient that completes the traditional Neapolitan pizza ingredients list.

Secret 7: The Balanced Use of Olive Oil

Olive oil, the liquid gold of Italian cuisine, plays a critical role in enhancing the flavors of Neapolitan Pizza. The balanced use of this Mediterranean staple imparts a mild fruity flavor, adding a layer of richness to the overall profile of the dish.

It’s drizzled on the pizza before baking and sometimes after baking, to highlight its aroma and flavor. A well-balanced olive oil use is what ties the flavors together in a Neapolitan pizza, just like when you treat yourself with the creamy decadence of Carbonara.

Secret 8: The Artful Technique of Pizza Tossing

Ever wondered why pizzaiolos toss the pizza dough in the air? This is no mere spectacle, but an essential step in making pizza from Naples at home or in a traditional pizzeria. This artful technique of pizza tossing serves to evenly stretch the dough, maintain a circular shape, and, importantly, create the perfect crust thickness.

It’s a technique that requires practice and skill, reflecting the craftsmanship that goes into every Neapolitan pizza, similar to the finesse needed to experience a hearty meal with our Bolognese Lasagna.

Secret 9: The Cultural Heritage and Protection

Neapolitan pizza isn’t merely a delicious meal—it’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Naples. This significance led to its recognition by UNESCO, which added the ‘Art of Neapolitan Pizzaiuolo’ to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017. This honor serves to protect and promote the traditional technique of pizza making that forms part of Naples’ cultural and gastronomic identity.

It’s a recognition that shows the importance of preserving the authenticity of this culinary art form, the way one would preserve the secrets of making classic Pizza Margherita.

Secret 10: Understanding the True ‘Pizza Napoletana

Understanding the true ‘Pizza Napoletana’ is about appreciating the rigorous standards that define it. The term ‘Pizza Napoletana’ is protected by the Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) label by the European Union, meaning that only pizzas that follow the traditional Neapolitan recipe can bear this name.

It’s a set of strict rules regarding the ingredients, preparation method, cooking technique, and even the final appearance of the pizza. The heart of these rules lies in preserving the authenticity of this beloved dish, reminiscent of the way one would honor the process of making an indulgent Risotto Milanese.

Creating Your Own Neapolitan Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Neapolitan Pizza from Naples at home may seem daunting, but armed with these secrets of authentic Italian pizza, you can bring a slice of Naples to your kitchen. Let’s walk through the process, from preparing the dough to taking that first delicious bite. Dive into a plate full of delicious Ravioli as you wait for the dough to proof, an essential part of cooking Neapolitan pizza dough.

1. Prepare the Dough: Combine flour, water, salt, and yeast, and knead until smooth and elastic. Let it rise for 8-24 hours.
2. Form the Base: Divide the dough into dough balls, then use your hands to shape them into circles, leaving a thicker border for the crust.
3. Add the Toppings: Apply a generous spread of San Marzano tomato sauce, followed by slices of Mozzarella di Bufala, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Cook the Pizza: Bake your pizza in a blazing hot pizza oven – ideally wood-fired for that distinctive, smoky taste.
5. Serve: Enjoy your pizza straight from the oven for the best experience.

Beyond Pizza: Exploring Naples’ Rich Culinary Scene

While Neapolitan pizza holds a treasured spot in the heart of Naples’ cuisine, the city offers a multitude of other mouthwatering dishes worth exploring. From the hearty Bolognese Lasagna to the rich Osso Buco, Naples’ culinary scene reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage. Take time to unlock the secrets of Italian cuisine with our Tortellini, or simply relax with a bowl of Spaghetti alle Vongole, a Neapolitan classic with clams, garlic, and chili.

Conclusion: Bringing a Slice of Naples to Your Home

As we conclude our journey through the secrets of authentic Italian pizza, it’s clear that Neapolitan pizza isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of Naples’ history, tradition, and culture. By making Neapolitan Pizza from Naples at home, you’re not just cooking—you’re carrying on a culinary heritage recognized and protected by UNESCO. So roll up your sleeves, heat up the oven, and let’s bring a slice of Naples to your home.

The process of making Neapolitan pizza is as satisfying as savoring a creamy bite of Risotto Milanese. Embark on this culinary adventure and relish the joy of creating your own authentic Neapolitan Pizza.

Neapolitan Pizza

An authentic Italian dish, Neapolitan Pizza is a culinary tradition from Naples, characterized by its thin, soft, and elastic dough and high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 day d

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 day d 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Naples

Servings 4

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the dough.
• Dough Scraper: To facilitate the dough-making process.
• Baking Stone or Pizza Stone: This aids in achieving a crispy pizza crust.
• Pizza Peel: To safely move the pizza into and out of the oven.
• Pizza Cutter: For slicing the pizza.
• Traditional Wood-Fired Pizza Oven (optional but recommended for authenticity): To achieve the distinctive, smoky taste of traditional Neapolitan pizza.

Ingredients

  

• 500 grams “00” Flour: This fine high-protein flour is perfect for making a light and airy pizza dough.
• 325 grams Water: To combine the dough.
• 10 grams Salt: For flavor.
• 3 grams Fresh Yeast: To help the dough rise.
• 1 can San Marzano Tomatoes: To make the classic tomato sauce.
• 200 grams Mozzarella di Bufala: For a creamy flavorful topping.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For aroma and flavor.
• Olive Oil: To drizzle over the pizza.

Instructions

 

• **Prepare the Dough**: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, salt, and yeast. Mix until a dough begins to form.
• **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough to a flat surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• **First Proofing**: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 8-24 hours, or until it doubles in size.
• **Divide and Shape**: Divide the dough into four equal parts and shape them into balls. Let them rest for a couple of hours.
• **Stretch the Dough**: Using your fingers, gently stretch each dough ball out to form a 10-inch circle, leaving a slightly thicker border for the crust.
• **Prepare the Sauce**: In a blender, process the San Marzano tomatoes until smooth.
• **Add Toppings**: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving the border clean. Add pieces of mozzarella and a few basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil.
• **Bake**: If using a traditional wood-fired oven, it should be around 485 degrees Celsius (905 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the pizza for about 60-90 seconds. If using a conventional oven, preheat it to the highest temperature with the pizza stone inside, bake the pizza for about 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
• **Serve**: Serve your pizza immediately, garnished with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Use “00” flour and San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic taste. Also, allow your dough to rest for 8-24 hours for a light and airy crust.

Keyword Authentic Italian Pizza, Italian cuisine, Naples Traditional Dish, Neapolitan Pizza, Wood-Fired Pizza