Recipe Neapolitan Pizza

Neapolitan Pizza, with its thin crust, savoury tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella cheese, is a culinary masterpiece cherished worldwide. Originating from Naples, Italy, this iconic dish has captivated taste buds for centuries. Today, we embark on a journey to recreate this classic delight in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1. Pizza Dough:

   • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
   • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
   • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
   • 2 teaspoons salt
   • 1 teaspoon sugar
   • Extra flour for dusting

2. Pizza Sauce:

   • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • Salt and pepper to taste

3. Toppings:

   • Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
   • Fresh basil leaves
   • Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
   • Pour in crushed tomatoes and add dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 500°F/260°C) and place a pizza stone or upside-down baking sheet inside to heat up.
   • Divide the dough into 2 or 4 equal portions, depending on the desired size of your pizzas.
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a circle, about 10-12 inches in diameter.
   • Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
   • Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
   • Remove the pizza from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Tips for Success:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of Neapolitan Pizza demands the best ingredients. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and extra virgin olive oil for an authentic taste.

2. Master the Dough: Proper kneading and proofing of the dough are crucial for achieving the perfect thin crust. Aim for a soft, elastic texture.

3. Keep it Simple: Neapolitan Pizza is all about simplicity. Avoid overloading it with toppings to let the flavours of the dough, sauce, and cheese shine through.

Variations:

1. Margherita Pizza: A classic Neapolitan pizza topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.

2. Marinara Pizza: A minimalist pizza featuring tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, without cheese.

3. Prosciutto e Rucola: Add slices of prosciutto and arugula on top of the baked pizza for a delightful flavour contrast.

Calories and Nutrition:

• A typical serving of Neapolitan Pizza (1/4 of a 12-inch pizza) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the toppings and amount of cheese used. However, nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, mastering the art of Neapolitan Pizza requires attention to detail, quality ingredients, and a passion for traditional Italian cuisine. By following this recipe and incorporating your own creativity, you can indulge in the authentic flavours of Naples right in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!