Marinara Pizza (Italy).

 Marinara Pizza: A Taste of Italy.

Marinara pizza, one of the simplest and oldest styles of Neapolitan pizza, epitomizes the essence of Italian cuisine with its minimalist approach. Originating from Naples, this pizza has been enjoyed since the mid-18th century. Named after the mariners (marina i) who favored its ingredients, Marinara pizza is a delightful blend of fresh, quality components.

The base of a Marinara pizza is a thin, crispy crust made from high-quality, finely milled Italian flour. Topped with a robust tomato sauce, it showcases the rich flavors of San Marzano tomatoes. A sprinkle of oregano and thin slices of garlic infuse the pizza with an aromatic depth. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties the elements together, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Unlike other pizzas, Marinara does not feature cheese, highlighting the purity of its ingredients. This simplicity allows the natural flavors to shine through, making it a favorite among purists and vegans alike.

Recipe for Marinara Pizza

Ingredients:

• 500g Italian 00 flour
• 325ml water
• 10g salt
• 3g fresh yeast
• 400g San Marzano tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in water. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 6-8 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to the highest setting (250-280°C/482-536°F).
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and let rest for 30 minutes.
6. Stretch each dough ball into a thin, round pizza base.
7. Spread the crushed San Marzano tomatoes evenly over each base.
8. Sprinkle the sliced garlic and dried oregano over the tomato sauce.
9. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
10. Bake each pizza in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy a slice of Italian tradition with the simplicity and flavor of Marinara pizza. Boon appetite!