Introduction
New York-style pizza, an iconic culinary creation that originated in the bustling streets of New York City, has won the hearts of pizza enthusiasts worldwide. Its distinct features, including large, thin, and foldable slices, have made it a beloved classic.
In this article, we delve into the history of this renowned pizza style, provide you with a detailed recipe, and offer some expert tips to help you achieve pizza perfection in your own kitchen.
A Brief History
New York-style pizza traces its roots back to the late 19th century when Italian immigrants brought their pizza-making traditions to America. The Neapolitan-style pizza, with its thin crust and simple toppings, served as the foundation for what would become the iconic New York-style pizza.
Over time, the unique blend of cultural influences and local ingredients shaped this pizza into the flavorful masterpiece it is today.
Recipe for Authentic New York-Style Pizza
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast.
- 2 teaspoons salt.
- 1 1/4 cups warm water.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 16 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded.
- Desired pizza toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.).
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt.
- Gradually add warm water and olive oil, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach (usually around 500°F or 260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful pizza sauce.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a floured surface, stretch and shape each portion into a round thin crust, approximately 14 inches in diameter.
- Carefully transfer the pizza crusts onto parchment paper or a pizza peel.
- Spread a thin layer of the pizza sauce onto each crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Add your desired toppings to the pizza.
- Carefully transfer the pizzas onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Pairing and Enjoyment
- For a classic pairing, enjoy your pizza with a cold glass of soda or a refreshing craft beer.
- And when it comes to dessert, a traditional New York cheesecake or a cannoli would be a delightful way to conclude your pizza feast.
Conclusion
Indulging in a slice of authentic New York-style pizza is an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and transports you to the vibrant streets of the Big Apple.
Remember to roll out the dough thin, apply the right amount of sauce and cheese, and bake it at a high temperature to achieve that perfect crispiness.
So gather your ingredients, embrace your inner pizzaiolo, and savor the flavors of this legendary pizza style right in the comfort of your own home. Buon appetito!
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