napolitano pizza

History of Neapolitan Pizza

Origins in Naples

Neapolitan pizza, known as "Pizza Napoletana," originated in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century. It was initially a dish for the poor, made with simple ingredients that were readily available. The traditional pizza was topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag.

Development of Ingredients

The introduction of the tomato to Europe in the 16th century, originally thought to be poisonous, eventually became a staple in Italian cuisine. By the late 1700s, tomatoes were being used as a topping for flatbreads in Naples, leading to the creation of what we now recognize as pizza.

Margherita Pizza

One of the most famous varieties, the Margherita pizza, was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy in 1889. The pizza was created by pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito, who used ingredients that represented the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil.

Traditional Preparation

Neapolitan pizza is characterized by its soft, chewy crust, which is traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven at high temperatures. The dough is made from highly refined flour, water, salt, and yeast, and it is allowed to rise for a long period, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Global Popularity

In the 20th century, Neapolitan pizza began to gain popularity outside of Italy, particularly in the United States. Italian immigrants brought their pizza-making traditions with them, leading to the establishment of pizzerias across the country. Over time, various styles of pizza emerged, but the classic Neapolitan style remained beloved for its authenticity.

Recognition and Protection

In 2009, the European Union recognized Neapolitan pizza as a Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG) product, which helps protect its authenticity and traditional preparation methods. This designation ensures that any pizza labeled as "Neapolitan" adheres to specific standards regarding ingredients and preparation techniques.

Conclusion

Today, Neapolitan pizza is celebrated worldwide for its simple yet delicious ingredients and traditional preparation methods. It continues to be a symbol of Italian culinary heritage, cherished by pizza lovers everywhere.