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Italian pizza is a beloved dish that has captured hearts (and stomachs) worldwide. While nothing beats the experience of enjoying a slice in the streets of Naples, you can bring the authentic flavours of Italy right into your kitchen with the right techniques and ingredients. Here's a guide to learn about italian pizza, from the dough to the toppings.
Start with the Dough
The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. For authentic Italian pizza, you want a thin, crispy base with a slightly chewy texture. Here's the secret: use 00 flour. This finely milled flour is commonly used in Italy for pizza and pasta, giving your dough the right texture and elasticity.Ingredients for the dough:
- 500g 00 flour
- 325ml water (room temperature)
- 10g salt
- 3g active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Method:
- Dissolve the yeast in water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl, then slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead it on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 6-8 hours or until doubled in size.
- After rising, divide the dough into portions and roll out to your desired pizza size.
Master the Sauce
The sauce is another vital part of authentic Italian pizza. The secret here is simplicity and quality. Use San Marzano tomatoes if possible, as these sweet tomatoes from Italy are the key to a rich, flavorful sauce.Ingredients for the sauce:
- 1 can of San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic (optional)
- Salt and fresh basil to taste
Method:
- Crush the tomatoes by hand or blend them lightly for a rustic texture.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic (optional), and cook until golden. Add the tomatoes and salt, simmering for 15 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil for that authentic Italian aroma.
Choose Your Cheese Wisely
Authentic Italian pizza is all about fresh ingredients; the cheese is no exception. Buffalo mozzarella is the traditional choice, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. Tear the mozzarella into pieces and avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it won't melt properly.Perfect Your Toppings
Classic Italian pizzas tend to have simple, fresh toppings. A Margherita pizza consists of just fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, but you can experiment with toppings like:- Prosciutto: Thin slices of cured ham added after baking.
- Mushrooms: Fresh, sautéed for a deeper flavor.
- Arugula: For a peppery contrast to the cheese and sauce.
Get the Cooking Temperature Right
The real secret to authentic Italian pizza lies in the cooking method. Italian pizzerias use wood-fired ovens that reach temperatures of 450-500°C (800-900°F), giving the crust its crispy edges and soft centre. While a traditional wood-fired oven may not be available at home, you can get similar results by preheating your oven to its highest setting (usually around 250-300°C or 475-550°F) and using a pizza stone. The pizza stone helps simulate the high heat of a brick oven.Tips for Baking:
- Place your pizza stone in the oven while it preheats for at least 30 minutes.
- Slide your pizza onto the stone and bake for 7-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
