Pizza Marguerita
Pizza with mozzarella, tomatoes and basil.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Pizzaria Mãos e Artes
Pizza, in its simplest form, existed in Naples long before the unification of Italy. Flatbreads with various toppings were common street food. However, the Pizza Margherita, as a specific creation, is linked to a royal visit.
Pizza Margherita is more than just food; it's a symbol of Italian national identity and culinary pride. Its simplicity and the use of national colors (red, white, and green) elevate it to a patriotic dish.
A Royal Creation
Legend states that in 1889, Queen Margherita of Savoy, visiting Naples, grew tired of the elaborate French cuisine served to her. She requested a local pizza maker, Raffaele Esposito, to create pizzas for her. He presented three pizzas, and her favorite was the one with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, said to represent the colors of the Italian flag.
Neapolitan Tradition
The traditional Neapolitan pizza making is an art form, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The strict rules governing ingredients, dough preparation, and baking contribute to the pizza's unique character.
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Pizza Margherita, and pizza in general, has become one of the most popular foods in the world, adapted and reinterpreted in countless variations. However, the simplicity and classic flavor of the Margherita remain highly valued.
The Pizza Margherita's flavors are a harmonious blend of fresh, simple ingredients. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the creamy richness of the mozzarella, and the herbaceous aroma of basil combine for a bright and satisfying taste.
The San Marzano tomatoes provide a slightly sweet and acidic base. High-quality mozzarella (ideally Mozzarella di Bufala Campana) offers a milky, slightly tangy creaminess. Fresh basil leaves contribute a peppery, slightly sweet, and aromatic element that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Olive oil adds richness and a fruity note, while a touch of salt enhances all the flavors.
Ingredient Quality
Use the highest quality ingredients you can find. San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (ideally Mozzarella di Bufala), and fresh basil are essential.
Dough Perfection
The dough is crucial. Use a '00' flour for a soft, airy crust. Allow the dough to rise slowly over a long period (24-48 hours) for the best flavor and texture.
Oven Temperature
A very hot oven is necessary to achieve a blistered, slightly charred crust. Ideally, use a pizza oven, but a regular oven at its highest temperature, preferably with a pizza stone or steel, can work well.
Simplicity is Key
Don't overload the pizza with toppings. The beauty of Margherita lies in its simplicity. Too many toppings will make the crust soggy.
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