Neapolitan Pizza vs. Roman Pizza: A Delicious Duel

Pizza is a worldwide favourite, and two of the most popular styles are Neapolitan and Roman. Both varieties have unique characteristics that distinguish them from each other. Neapolitan pizza is known for its fluffy crust and fresh toppings, while Roman pizza has a thin and crispy base with a variety of toppings. 

In this article, we will compare and contrast the two styles of pizza and explore the history and cultural significance of each.

1. History and Background

Neapolitan pizza originates from Naples, Italy, and has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The pizza was initially a street food made by poor people in Naples, who would add tomatoes and cheese to their flatbreads. 

The modern version of Neapolitan pizza is made with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven for only 60-90 seconds, resulting in a soft and fluffy crust.

On the other hand, Roman pizza is a newer style that emerged in the mid-20th century. It is believed to have been created by a baker in Rome who wanted to create a pizza that could be sold by the slice. 

Roman pizza is typically rectangular in shape and has a thin and crispy crust. The toppings can vary, but some of the most popular include tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and cured meats.

2. Ingredients and Preparation

The ingredients used in Neapolitan pizza are simple and of high quality. The dough is made from only four ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is then left to rise for several hours before being stretched by hand. 

The sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and tangy flavour. The cheese used is fresh mozzarella, which is made from cow's milk and has a creamy texture.

In contrast, Roman pizza has a more varied range of ingredients. The dough is made from a combination of wheat flour, semolina flour, yeast, and water. The dough is then left to rise for several hours before being rolled out into a rectangular shape. 

The sauce used is typically made from canned tomatoes, and the cheese can vary from mozzarella to pecorino romano or parmesan.

3. Cooking Method

The cooking method for Neapolitan pizza is crucial to its unique texture and flavour. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a temperature of around 430-480°C. The high heat cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a soft and fluffy crust with a slightly charred flavour. The pizza is typically cooked for only 60-90 seconds.

In contrast, Roman pizza is typically cooked in an electric oven at a lower temperature of around 220-240°C. The lower temperature allows the pizza to cook more slowly, resulting in a crispy crust. The pizza is typically cooked for around 10-15 minutes.

4. Toppings

The toppings used in Neapolitan pizza are typically simple and fresh. The most popular toppings include San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Other toppings can consist of olives, artichokes, and anchovies. The toppings are usually added sparingly so as not to overpower the delicate flavour of the crust.

In contrast, Roman pizza has a wider range of toppings. Some of the most popular toppings include tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, cured meats, and vegetables. The toppings are usually added generously, resulting in a more substantial pizza.

Conclusion

Both Neapolitan and Roman pizza are delicious styles that have their unique characteristics. Neapolitan pizza is known for its fluffy crust and fresh toppings, while Roman pizza has a thin and crispy base with a range of toppings. 

The history, ingredients, cooking methods, and toppings of each style are distinct and contribute to their unique flavours. Whether you prefer Neapolitan or Roman pizza, one thing is for sure: pizza will continue to be a worldwide favourite for years to come!

If you're craving for a delicious Italian pizza that is hand-crafted, artisan, stone oven-baked, and authentic Neapolitan style, La Ruota is the perfect place for you! Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, there's a pizza for everyone at La Ruota Pizzeria. Buy pizza at La Ruota by placing your order online today!

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