Authentic Pizza Margherita
30M
45M
- Makes 4 servings
- 500g '00' flour or all-purpose flour
- 325ml lukewarm water
- 10g salt
- 3g active dry yeast
- 400g canned San Marzano tomatoes
- 250g fresh mozzarella, preferably buffalo
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with the lukewarm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and mix until a dough forms.
- 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 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go, ideally around 500°F (260°C), and place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll out one piece into a 10-12 inch round, leaving a thicker edge for the crust.
- Crush the San Marzano tomatoes by hand and spread a thin layer over the dough, leaving the edge clear. Tear the mozzarella into small pieces and distribute evenly over the tomatoes. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
- Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top, and drizzle with a bit more olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.
Authentic Pizza Margherita: A Slice of Italian History, Taste, and Culture
History
The Authentic Pizza Margherita holds a special place in the annals of culinary history, tracing its origins back to the late 19th century in Naples, Italy. Legend has it that in 1889, to honor the visit of Queen Margherita of Savoy, the renowned pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created a pizza that mirrored the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. Named “Pizza Margherita” in her honor, this simple yet elegant dish quickly became a symbol of Italian cuisine and has since spread its fame worldwide. The authentic taste of Naples, as celebrated in this recipe, continues to captivate pizza lovers everywhere, bringing a piece of Italian history to home kitchens around the globe.
Taste Profile
The Authentic Pizza Margherita is a celebration of simplicity and freshness, embodying the essence of Italian culinary philosophy. The taste profile of this classic Italian pizza is defined by the harmonious blend of its three main ingredients: ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves. The tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy base, perfectly complemented by the mild, milky flavor of the mozzarella. The basil adds a subtle, aromatic note that ties the flavors together, creating a symphony of taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Naples to your home kitchen, allowing you to experience the pure, unadulterated joy of a well-made Pizza Margherita.
Cultural Significance
Within the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine, the Authentic Pizza Margherita holds a position of cultural significance that extends far beyond its simple ingredients. As a dish that originated in Naples, it represents the heart and soul of Neapolitan culinary tradition, which values the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the art of simple yet masterful preparation. The Pizza Margherita is not just a meal; it is a cultural icon that embodies the spirit of Italian hospitality and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. By bringing the authentic taste of Naples to your home kitchen, this recipe allows you to partake in a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations, celebrating the cultural heritage of Italy with every delicious bite.
