Discover the Delight of Pizza al Taglio

Discover the Delight of Pizza al Taglio

 

Pizza al Taglio, literally meaning "pizza by the cut," is a Roman specialty that has captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza lovers around the world. Unlike traditional round pizzas, Pizza al Taglio is baked in large rectangular trays and sold by the slice, making it perfect for a quick, delicious meal on the go.

One of the defining characteristics of Pizza al Taglio is its airy, yet crispy crust. This texture is achieved through a high-hydration dough, which results in a light and bubbly base. Toppings vary widely, from classic Margarita and pepperoni to more creative combinations like zucchini blossoms and truffle oil.

What sets Pizza al Taglio apart is the flexibility it offers both in terms of portion and variety. Customers can mix and match different flavors in a single purchase, enjoying a personalized pizza experience. This style of pizza is also ideal for sharing, making it a popular choice for gatherings and parties.

Whether you’re walking through the cobblestone streets of Rome or recreating this delightful treat at home, Pizza al Taglio offers a unique and satisfying way to enjoy one of the world’s favorite foods. Its versatility and flavor ensure that there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Recipe for Pizza al Taglio

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500g bread flour
• 370ml water (room temperature)
• 10g salt
• 2g instant yeast
• 20ml olive oil

For the Toppings (choose as desired):

• Tomato sauce
• Fresh mozzarella
• Sliced pepperoni
• Fresh basil leaves
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Sliced mushrooms
• Olives
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Arugula
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and yeast.
   • Gradually add the water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Add the salt and olive oil, then mix until the dough comes together.
   • 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 in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.

2. Preheat and Prepare:

   • Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F) or as high as it will go.
   • Grease a large rectangular baking tray with olive oil.

3. Shape the Dough:

   • Once the dough has risen, transfer it to the baking tray.
   • Stretch the dough gently to fit the tray, ensuring it is evenly spread.

4. Add Toppings:

   • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
   • Add your choice of toppings. For a classic Margarita, use tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. For more variety, mix and match toppings like pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, and arugula.

5. Bake:

   • Drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Cut into rectangular slices and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Pizza al Taglio, perfect for any occasion!