The Ultimate Guide to Authentic Pizza Napolitana: From Dough to Outdoor Oven
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Naples without leaving your backyard? Look no further! Today, we're diving into the world of Pizza Napolitana, the crown jewel of Italian cuisine. With the right ingredients, technique, and a trusty outdoor pizza oven, you'll be crafting pizzas that rival those found in the streets of Naples.
Pizza Napolitana, or Neapolitan pizza, is renowned for its simplicity and high-quality ingredients. The dough is made with just flour, water, salt, and yeast, then topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra-virgin olive oil. The magic happens when this pizza is cooked in a blazing hot wood-fired oven, resulting in a soft, chewy crust with charred spots known as "leoparding."
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1000g Type 00 flour
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650ml water
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30g salt
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3g fresh yeast
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San Marzano tomatoes
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Fresh mozzarella
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Fresh basil leaves
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Extra-virgin olive oil
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Mix flour, water, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth1.
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Let the dough rise for 2 hours at room temperature, then divide into 250g balls.
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Allow the dough balls to proof for another 6-8 hours2.
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Preheat your outdoor pizza oven to 850°F (450°C).
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Stretch the dough gently into a 10-inch circle.
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Top with a thin layer of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, torn fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of olive oil.
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Slide the pizza into the oven and cook for 60-90 seconds, rotating halfway through6.
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Remove from the oven, add fresh basil leaves, and enjoy your authentic Pizza Napolitana!
To achieve the perfect Pizza Napolitana, a high-temperature outdoor pizza oven is crucial. These ovens can reach temperatures of up to 900°F (480°C), allowing for the quick cooking time that gives Neapolitan pizza its signature texture and flavor7.
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Use high-quality, simple ingredients.
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Don't overwork the dough – gentle handling is key.
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Keep toppings minimal to maintain authenticity.
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Ensure your oven is scorching hot before cooking.
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Cook quickly and watch carefully to avoid burning.
Your outdoor pizza oven isn't just for pizza! These versatile appliances can roast vegetables, bake bread, and even cook meat to perfection. The high heat and wood-fired flavor add a unique touch to any dish.
By mastering the art of Pizza Napolitana in your own backyard, you're not just making dinner – you're creating an experience. The combination of traditional techniques and modern outdoor cooking equipment allows you to bring a slice of Naples to your home, impressing family and friends with your culinary skills.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be discouraged if your first attempts aren't restaurant-quality – each pizza you make will be better than the last. Soon, you'll be crafting Pizza Napolitana that would make any Neapolitan proud.
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