How to make a good Neapolitan pizza

Italian cuisine is celebrated for its flavors, simplicity, and passion. Amongst its many renowned dishes, Neapolitan holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of food enthusiasts worldwide. This classic pizza, characterized by its thin, soft, and chewy crust, is traditionally topped with simple yet delicious ingredients. If you’re eager to recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen, here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a good Neapolitan pizza.

1. Start with the Dough:
Neapolitan pizza dough is typically made with just four ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. To achieve the perfect texture, use fine-ground “00” flour and dissolve the yeast in warm water before incorporating it into the flour mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, and then allow it to rise for at least 8 hours or overnight.

2. Shape the Crust:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into balls, approximately 200 grams each. Lightly flour your working surface and stretch the dough balls into a thin round shape using a rolling pin or your hands. Keep in mind that the edges of Neapolitan pizza should be slightly thicker than the center, ensuring a crispy crust.

3. Choose Quality Ingredients:
Authentic Neapolitan pizza is all about the quality of its ingredients. Use San Marzano tomatoes, known for their balanced sweetness and low acidity, as the base for your pizza sauce. Fresh mozzarella cheese, preferably buffalo mozzarella, adds a creamy and delicate flavor that perfectly complements the other toppings. Enhance your toppings with fresh basil leaves, aromatic garlic, and extra virgin olive oil.

4. Master the Oven:
Neapolitan pizza is famously cooked in a wood-fired oven at extremely high temperatures, often reaching 800°F (427°C). However, this might not be feasible for home cooking. To compromise, preheat your oven to its highest temperature and use a pizza stone or a preheated cast-iron skillet to mimic the intense heat of a traditional oven. Place your pizza on the stone or skillet and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

5. Practice Patience:
The key to achieving a good Neapolitan pizza lies in patience. Allow the dough to rise slowly, develop flavors over time, and carefully monitor the heat in your oven. Only through these careful processes can you truly capture the essence of this iconic dish.

6. Experiment with Toppings:
While Neapolitan pizza traditionally features minimal toppings, feel free to experiment and customize your pizza to your liking. Add vegetables like roasted peppers or olives for a burst of flavors, or try different types of meats such as prosciutto or spicy salami for an added kick. Remember, though, to keep the toppings light and let the dough shine.

7. Enjoy the Experience:
Once you’ve worked your way through the steps above, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Invite friends and family to share in the joy of a homemade Neapolitan pizza. Serve it fresh out of the oven, allowing everyone to appreciate the delightful combination of crispy crust, melted cheese, and delightful toppings. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of your favorite Italian wine for a truly authentic experience.

In conclusion, making a good Neapolitan pizza requires the right ingredients, techniques, and a touch of technique. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to produce a delicious Neapolitan pizza that honors the rich Italian culinary tradition.