PIZZA RECEPIES AND COOKING METHOD

 PIZZA RECEPIES AND COOKING METHOD

The Classic Charm of Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza, a timeless Italian classic, is more than just a dish—it's a cultural icon celebrated worldwide. Named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, this pizza is a tribute to Italy's rich culinary heritage and national pride. Its simple yet exquisite combination of ingredients represents the colors of the Italian flag: vibrant red tomatoes, creamy white mozzarella cheese, and fresh green basil leaves. The dough, traditionally thin and crispy, serves as the perfect canvas to showcase these flavors in harmony.

Authentic Margherita pizza begins with high-quality ingredients and careful preparation. The dough is hand-stretched and topped with a light layer of San Marzano tomato sauce, slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, and whole basil leaves. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil enhances the flavors before the pizza is baked in a hot oven until the crust is golden and crisp, and the cheese melts into savory perfection.

Whether enjoyed in a bustling pizzeria in Naples or homemade with love in kitchens around the world, Margherita pizza continues to captivate with its simplicity and deliciousness, making it a beloved favorite for pizza enthusiasts everywhere.

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g Tipo "00" flour
• 325ml water
• 10g sea salt
• 3g fresh yeast
• 400g San Marzano tomatoes (canned)
• 250g fresh mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • Dissolve the yeast in water and let it sit for a few minutes.
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 8-12 hours.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Crush the San Marzano tomatoes by hand or blend them lightly, keeping some texture.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Preheat your oven to its highest setting (ideally 475-500°F) with a pizza stone inside.
   • Divide the dough into 2 or 4 equal portions, depending on the size of pizzas desired.
   • On a floured surface, stretch each dough ball into a thin round shape.

4. Bake the Pizza:

   • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Tear the mozzarella into small pieces and distribute evenly over the sauce.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt.
   • Transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone and bake for 7-10 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
   • Slice and serve immediately, savoring the authentic flavors of Margherita pizza at its finest.