The best Neapolitan pizza

Neapolitan pizza is a culinary staple that originated in Naples, Italy. It is a dish renowned for its simplicity and exquisite taste. When it comes to the best Neapolitan pizza, several key elements must intertwine perfectly to create a masterpiece worth savoring. From the dough to the toppings, every aspect of this traditional dish goes through meticulous preparation to deliver an authentic experience.

At the heart of every good Neapolitan pizza lies the dough. Made with only four ingredients—flour, water, salt, and yeast—the dough is left to rise for a minimum of 24 hours. This extended fermentation process gives the pizza its signature light and chewy crust. The result is a fluffy yet crispy base that complements the toppings and holds their flavors harmoniously.

One of the main characteristics that differentiate Neapolitan pizza from other styles is the simplicity of its toppings. The traditional Margherita pizza, for example, consists of just three ingredients: fresh San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala cheese, and fresh basil leaves. The tomatoes are carefully selected for their intense flavor, while the mozzarella is made from buffalo milk, providing a creamy consistency that melts to perfection in the wood-fired oven. Lastly, the aromatic basil adds a touch of freshness and completes the symphony of flavors.

To achieve the desired quality, Neapolitan pizza must be cooked in a wood-fired oven that reaches temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. This method imparts a distinct smoky aroma and ensures quick and even cooking. The pizza is placed directly on the oven’s stone surface, resulting in a charred yet tender crust. The whole process takes only about 90 seconds, preserving the pizza’s flavors and maintaining its delicate balance.

While the original Margherita pizza remains a classic favorite, Neapolitan pizzerias have embraced creativity and expanded their menus to include a variety of toppings. From traditional options like marinara, which replaces the cheese with a tangy tomato sauce infused with garlic and oregano, to more unconventional options like prosciutto and arugula or spicy salami, there is something to suit every palate.

When seeking the best Neapolitan pizza, it is crucial to visit a pizzeria that respects the authenticity and tradition of this culinary art form. A true Neapolitan pizzeria will adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the Association Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), ensuring that the pizza is prepared according to tradition. These guidelines include using specific ingredients, employing specific techniques, and even specifying the size and shape of the finished product.

One such pizzeria is Pizzarium Napoli, nestled in the heart of Naples. With its rustic brick walls and wood-fired oven, it emanates the ambiance of a true Neapolitan eatery. From the moment the fresh dough is stretched and topped with the finest ingredients to the moment it emerges from the oven, Pizzarium Napoli takes pride in crafting pizzas that exemplify the Neapolitan tradition.

In conclusion, the best Neapolitan pizza is a harmonious union of simplicity, tradition, and quality ingredients. From the luscious San Marzano tomatoes to the fragrant basil and velvety buffalo mozzarella, each element serves a purpose in creating an unforgettable culinary experience. When combined with a perfectly cooked crust, prepared in a wood-fired oven, the result is a masterpiece worth savoring. So, the next time you find yourself craving an authentic Neapolitan pizza, seek out a pizzeria that upholds the tradition and taste the true flavors of Italy.