A Taste of Naples - Understanding the Neapolitan Pizza

Pizza is one of the most popular dishes worldwide, with various styles and flavours to cater to every palate. Among the plethora of pizza styles available, Neapolitan pizza stands out as a favourite for many food enthusiasts. This traditional Italian pizza boasts a rich history and a unique set of rules that set it apart from the rest. But what exactly is a Neapolitan pizza? Let's dive into its origins, characteristics, and what makes it so special.
The Birth of Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza, or pizza Napoletana, traces its roots back to Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. It is believed that the city's poor working class created this dish as an affordable and quick meal option. The simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients used in the Neapolitan pizza was a reflection of the local produce available in the Campania region.
The classic Margherita, one of the most famous Neapolitan pizzas, is said to have been created in honour of Queen Margherita of Savoy in 1889. The story goes that pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito crafted a pizza with the colours of the Italian flag—red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil)—to impress the queen during her visit to Naples. Although this tale has been debated, the Margherita pizza remains a symbol of Neapolitan culinary pride.
Characteristics of a Neapolitan Pizza
1. The Dough
The base of a Neapolitan pizza is a thin crust made from a simple mixture of water, salt, yeast, and '00' flour, which is finely milled and high in protein. The dough is then hand-stretched and tossed for achieving its characteristic soft and airy texture. According to the rules of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the tradition of Neapolitan pizza, the dough must not exceed 3mm in thickness.
2. The Sauce
Neapolitan pizza sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes, a variety of plum tomatoes grown in the volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius. These tomatoes are known for their sweet flavour, low acidity, and minimal seeds, making them perfect for pizza sauce. The tomatoes are crushed and seasoned with salt, keeping the sauce simple and fresh.
3. The Cheese
The cheese used in Neapolitan pizza is typically fresh buffalo mozzarella or fior di latte (cow's milk mozzarella). The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these cheeses complements the tangy tomato sauce and light crust beautifully.
4. The Toppings
Neapolitan pizzas are known for their simplicity and use of high-quality, local ingredients. Traditional toppings include fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese. While the Margherita is the most famous example, other classic Neapolitan pizzas include the Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil) and the Bianca (olive oil, garlic, and mozzarella).
5. The Cooking Method
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven at temperatures of around 900°F (485°C) for 60-90 seconds. This intense heat produces the signature leopard spot charring on the crust while keeping the center soft and slightly wet.
The AVPN Rules
We mentioned the AVPN earlier, and if you're curious to know more about them, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana was founded in 1984 to protect and promote the tradition of Neapolitan pizza. The organization has established strict rules for the ingredients, preparation, and cooking techniques that must be followed to create an authentic Neapolitan pizza. Pizzerias that adhere to these guidelines can apply for the AVPN certification, ensuring customers that they are experiencing a true taste of Naples.
Conclusion
Neapolitan pizza is a culinary treasure that embodies the rich history and traditions of Naples, Italy. Its simple ingredients, combined with precise techniques and the passion of skilled pizzaiolos, create a unique and delicious dining experience. Whether you're visiting Naples or enjoying a slice at a pizzeria in your hometown, indulging in a Neapolitan pizza is a must for any pizza lover!
La Ruota is a restaurant offering a wide range of hand-crafted, artisan, and authentic Neapolitan pizzas, helping everyone enjoy incredible pizza. If you're looking for Neapolitan pizza in Vancouver, come check out our menu and order from us today.




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