How to Make Authentic Italian Pizza
Pizza is one of the most loved dishes in the world. It’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a casual night in. But have you ever wondered how to make authentic Italian pizza at home? Forget frozen pizzas or fast food versions—this guide will teach you how to make real Italian pizza that tastes just like the ones you’d find in Naples, the birthplace of pizza.
Making pizza may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually simpler than you might think. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little patience, you’ll be whipping up delicious pizzas in no time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to an authentic Italian pizza lies in its ingredients. Italians believe in simplicity and quality, so it’s important to use fresh, high-quality items. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the dough:
– 3 ½ cups (500 grams) of all-purpose or ‘00’ flour (Italian flour is ideal, but regular flour works too)
– 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) of warm water
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 packet (7 grams) of dry yeast
For the toppings:
– 1 cup of canned tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes are the best if you can find them)
– Fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably buffalo mozzarella)
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil
– Salt to taste
Pro tip: Keep it simple when it comes to toppings. Authentic Italian pizza focuses on the quality of the ingredients rather than piling on unnecessary extras.
Step 1: Make the Dough
The pizza dough is the foundation of your masterpiece. Follow these steps:
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Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until bubbles or foam appear. This means the yeast is ready to use.
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Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until it starts to come together.
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Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
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Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours. The dough should double in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the tomato sauce.
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Crush the tomatoes: Use your hands or a blender to crush the canned tomatoes into a smooth but slightly chunky consistency.
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Season the sauce: Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Some Italians also add fresh garlic or oregano, but for authentic Neapolitan pizza, simple is best.
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Don’t cook it: Authentic Italian pizza sauce doesn’t need to be cooked in advance. The fresh taste of the tomatoes will shine after baking in the oven.
Step 3: Assemble Your Pizza
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out and add the toppings.
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to its highest temperature, ideally around 475–500°F (250°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
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Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two or more portions (depending on the size of your pizza). Roll out each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface. You can use a rolling pin or your hands.
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Add the sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges. This will form the crust.
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Add the cheese: Tear your mozzarella into small pieces and scatter them over the sauce.
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Finish with toppings: Place fresh basil leaves on top and drizzle a little olive oil over the pizza.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Once your pizza is assembled, it’s time to bake!
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Transfer to the oven: If you’re using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the pizza onto the stone. If not, place the pizza on a regular baking sheet or tray.
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Bake: Let the pizza cook for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary in heat intensity.
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Serve immediately: Once your pizza is out of the oven, slice it and serve while it’s still hot.
Tips for Success
- Use a pizza stone: A pizza stone helps the dough cook evenly and gives it that crispy crust, just like in Italian pizzerias. If you don’t have one, using an overturned baking tray works as well.
- Don’t overload the toppings: Less is more when it comes to authentic Italian pizza. Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
- Experiment with variations: While the classic Margherita is a fan favorite, feel free to try variations like adding sliced prosciutto or arugula after baking for a fresh twist.
Conclusion
Making authentic Italian pizza at home doesn’t require fancy equipment or a professional chef’s skills. All you need are fresh ingredients, a little time, and a lot of love for cooking. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating pizzas that transport you straight to Italy.
So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how rewarding it is to make your own pizza from scratch. Buon appetito! 🍕
