Pizza is a universally loved dish that has become a staple in many cultures around the world. It is a simple yet delicious meal that can be customized to suit individual preferences. However, pizza comes in many variations and styles, and it can be confusing to understand the differences between them.
In recent years, Neapolitan pizza has gained popularity and is often touted as the “authentic” pizza. But what sets Neapolitan pizza apart from regular pizza? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of pizza and delve into the history and cultural significance of Neapolitan pizza.
The Origins and History of Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza traces its roots back to Naples, Italy, where it first emerged in the late 18th century. It was traditionally made using local ingredients and baked in wood-fired ovens, resulting in a thin, crispy crust and simple toppings such as tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. The popularity of Neapolitan pizza grew rapidly in Italy and eventually spread to other parts of the world.
In 1984, the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) was established in Naples to protect and promote the traditional methods of Neapolitan pizza-making. Today, the certification process for making authentic Neapolitan pizza is stringent and requires adherence to specific standards regarding ingredients, preparation, and cooking techniques. This ensures that Neapolitan pizza retains its distinct flavor and texture, making it a true reflection of its origins and history.
Traditional Ingredients Used in Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is widely regarded as the quintessential Italian pizza. As such, its traditional ingredients are representative of those commonly found in the region surrounding Naples, Italy, from where it originated. One of the key aspects of Neapolitan pizza is the way the ingredients are chosen and used, emphasizing freshness and quality above all else. San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the rich volcanic soils of the Campania region, are used for the sauce, which is lightly applied so as not to overwhelm other flavors.
The cheese is another important aspect of Neapolitan pizza. Buffalo mozzarella, a soft cheese made from the milk of water buffaloes, is favored because it has a creamier texture and stronger flavor than cow’s milk mozzarella. The dough, made from fine flour, yeast, water, and salt, is the foundation of every pizza. The dough must be stretched by hand and baked at very high temperatures in a wood-fired oven to create the signature soft, chewy crust that characterizes Neapolitan pizza. Some pizzerias add basil and olive oil to the traditional ingredients to enhance the aromas and flavors of the pizza.
The Importance of Wood-Fired Ovens in Making Neapolitan Pizza
The importance of Wood-Fired ovens in making Neapolitan pizza cannot be overstated. The traditional preparation method of Neapolitan pizza involves cooking the pizza in a wood-fired oven. The oven should be heated to 430°C, and the pizza should cook for no more than 90 seconds.
The wood-fired oven ensures that the pizza crust is crispy and chewy, while the toppings are perfectly cooked. The high temperature cooks the pizza quickly, which preserves the moisture in the dough and toppings. The smoky flavor that the wood infuses into the pizza crust is also a crucial aspect of the Neapolitan pizza experience. The use of a wood-fired oven is, therefore, essential in achieving the distinct taste and texture of Neapolitan pizza.
Characteristics of Regular Pizza – A Comparison
Regular pizza, also known as American-style pizza, is the most common type of pizza found across the world. It is known for its thick, fluffy crust which is made from bread flour, yeast, water, salt, and sugar. The dough is often kneaded for a longer time which contributes to a denser texture.
The toppings on regular pizza are quite diverse, including tomato sauce, cheese, meat, vegetables, and sometimes fruit. The cheese is generally a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, and it is often melted to the point of being completely fused with the toppings. Regular pizza is baked in a hot oven for longer periods than a Neapolitan pizza, which offers a crispy crust and a chewy interior. In comparison to Neapolitan pizza which is often eaten with a fork and knife, the regular pizza can be picked up using your hands, making it more casual and fun to eat.
The Debate on Toppings – Neapolitan vs. Regular
When it comes to pizza toppings, the debate between Neapolitan and regular pizza styles is a heated one. Neapolitan pizza, being a traditional Italian pizza, has strict guidelines as to what can and cannot be used as toppings. The classic Margherita pizza, for example, only has three toppings: tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Other Neapolitan toppings include garlic, olives, and anchovies. Neapolitan pizza aficionados argue that the simplicity of the toppings enhances the flavor of the crust and sauce.
On the other hand, regular pizza has a much wider variety of toppings available. From pepperoni to pineapple, customers can choose almost anything to put on their pizza. While some argue that this allows for more creativity and customization, others argue that it takes away from the purity of the pizza. Ultimately, whether you prefer your pizza with limited traditional toppings or a wide array of options is a matter of personal taste.
Pizza Types from Different Regions – A Worldview
Pizza has become a global phenomenon, and every region has put its spin on the classic slice. In the United States, the most common style is New York-style pizza, which features a thinner crust that’s slightly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is renowned for its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese and toppings above the sauce.
Italy is the home of pizza, and there are a diverse range of styles there as well. Neapolitan pizza from Naples is the most traditional and consists of a chewy, flavorful crust with simple, fresh toppings such as San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese. Roman pizza, on the other hand, is characterized by its thin, crispy crust and is often topped with ingredients like prosciutto and arugula. Along with these, many other regions of Italy such as Sicily, Umbria, Apulia, and Lazio have their own unique pizza variations.
How to Enjoy Neapolitan and Regular Pizza at Home or in Restaurants
Neapolitan and regular pizza may have differences in their preparation, but both are undoubtedly delicious. If you’re looking to enjoy these pizzas at home, it’s essential to have the right equipment. A pizza stone and a good quality pizza cutter are essential for creating the perfect crust and slicing your cooked pizza to perfection. You can use a wood-fired oven, gas-fired oven or a simple kitchen oven to cook your pizza at home. Wood-fired ovens are the best option for creating authentic Neapolitan pizza with their high temperatures and even heat distribution.
To enjoy Neapolitan and regular pizza at restaurants, it’s crucial to choose an establishment that is known for making authentic pizza. Look for places that use fresh ingredients, hand-tossed dough, and wood-fired ovens. For an even more authentic experience, try a pizzeria that has been certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. The association ensures that a pizzeria is following the traditional methods and ingredients to make Neapolitan pizza. When you find the perfect pizza place, sit back, relax, and savor every bite.
The Conclusion
The difference between Neapolitan pizza and regular pizza is stark and is apparent in every aspect of the dish – from its history, dough, toppings, sauce to the method of preparation and cooking. While regular pizza is ubiquitous around the world and is enjoyed by millions of people every day, Neapolitan pizza has established itself as a culinary masterpiece and an essential part of Naples’ cultural heritage.
The distinct taste and texture of Neapolitan pizza, accompanied by the rich history behind it, make it a unique delicacy that’s worth trying at least once. Regular pizza, on the other hand, has evolved into a versatile dish that can be customized with different toppings to cater to individual taste preferences. In conclusion, whether you go for the traditional Neapolitan pizza or prefer to experiment with different toppings, pizza remains a popular culinary delight that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide.