A Journey Through Types of Italian Pizza

There’s more to pizza in Italy than the classic tomato and mozzarella pie that most non-Italians think of. In fact, there are as many varieties of Italian pizza as people are living in Naples! Each region puts its spin on this beloved dish, from the Neapolitan classic to Roman-style al Taglio and the thin-crisp pies of Tuscany. Join us on a journey through the different styles of Italian pizza and discover the unique flavors and toppings that make each one a must-try. Get ready to drool over your screen as we delve into the cheesy, doughy goodness of Italy’s most famous export.

What Is Italian Pizza?

Italian pizza is a culmination of several factors, including the dough, toppings, and cooking methods. This delicious food is a staple in Italy and has become popular worldwide. Italian pizza’s characteristics vary depending on its region, but the fundamental principles remain the same. Here are some of the defining features that make Italian pizza unique:

• The dough used for Italian pizza is usually a mixture of flour, yeast, salt, and water. It is kneaded for several minutes to create a smooth, elastic texture that will expand during cooking, resulting in a light and airy crust.
• The pizza toppings are often simple, with the emphasis placed on using high-quality ingredients. Some popular toppings include fresh tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, but there are countless variations to choose from.
• Italian pizza is cooked in a high-temperature wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy, charred crust and perfectly melted cheese.

Italian pizza comes in many different styles, each with its own unique characteristics. From the soft and chewy Neapolitan pizza to the crisp and thin Roman-style pizza to the hearty and thick Sicilian pizza, there is a style to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re dining in Italy or abroad, trying different types of Italian pizza is an adventure in itself. And if you’re feeling ambitious, making your own Italian pizza at home is easier than you might think. With some practice, you can recreate the flavors and textures of authentic Italian pizza right in your own kitchen. 

Different Varieties Of Italian Pizza

Italian is more than just tomato and mozzarella on a round crust. Read on to discover the delicious and diverse varieties of pizza in Italy:

1. Neapolitan Pizza: Created in Naples, this pizza has a soft, well-leavened crust and minimal toppings, like tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil.

2. Roman-Style Pizza: Known as pizza al Taglio, this pizza is baked in sheet pans, sold by the slice, and has a thin, crispy crust. It’s perfect for savory toppings like ham, mushrooms, and olives.

3. Sicilian Pizza: Sicilian pizza has a thick, doughy crust and can be enjoyed with or without tomato sauce. It’s typically topped with bold flavors like local hams, cheese, and veggies.

4. Focaccia: Originating from Genoa, focaccia is a flatbread that often includes rosemary, olive oil, and coarse salt. It can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like olives, tomatoes, or onion.

5. Calzone: A folded-over pizza with ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, ham, and mushrooms baked inside a pocket of pizza dough.

6. Margherita Pizza: Topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves to represent the colors of the Italian flag, this pizza is a classic favorite.

7. Quattro Formaggi Pizza: Also known as four cheese pizza, this pizza is loaded with mozzarella, gorgonzola, Parmesan, and provolone cheese.

From crispy to chewy, cheesy to classic, there’s a pizza for everybody. Give them all a try and find your new favorite slice! 

The Origins Of Pizza In Italy

Pizza has a rich and fascinating history in Italy, dating back to ancient times. The ancient Romans already enjoyed flatbreads with toppings, but it was in the 1700s and 1800s that pizza became strongly associated with Naples. Pizza provided a cheap, quick, and nutritious meal in a city where many lived in poverty. Street stalls and vendors were the main places to buy pizza until the first dedicated pizzerias opened their doors around 1830. King Ferdinand I is said to have invited pizza chef Antonio Testa to Capodimonte to prepare pizzas for the Queen and court in 1815, further propelling pizza into the mainstream. However, in the 18th century, when the tomato arrived in Italy, the first ancestor of traditional Neapolitan pizza was born. We now call this “marinara,” made with olive oil, tomato, garlic, and oregano. The Margherita pizza, made with tomato, mozzarella, and basil, was invented in 1889 by Neapolitan chef Raffaele Esposito in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. Despite being born in Naples, pizza would take some time to become popular beyond the city’s borders. It became more popular on the East Coast of the United States than in Italy, thanks to Neapolitan immigrants who brought the tradition of street pizza with them. 

Traditional Neapolitan Pizza And Its Ingredients

Traditionalapolitan pizza is one of the most beloved dishes in Italy. Its history is rich, and its ingredients are simple yet carefully selected. Here’s everything you need to know about this mouth-watering masterpiece:

1. A classic Neapolitan pizza is made with simple and fresh ingredients like raw tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil. No fancy toppings are allowed! 

2. The pizza dough is made with highly refined Italian type 0 or 00 wheat flour, Neapolitan or fresh brewer’s yeast, water, and salt.

3. The pizza is baked for 60 to 90 seconds in a minimum 800 F stone oven with a wood fire. The crust should be thin, soft, and bubbly in spots.

4. The Neapolitan pizza is topped with fresh basil and olive oil. The ingredients must be all-natural and fresh.

5. The pizza is cooked at very high temperatures ranging from 800 F to 900 F, for no more than 90 seconds.

6. There are three official variants of Neapolitan pizza: one topped with tomato, garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil; one with tomato, fresh sliced mozzarella, fresh basil, and extra-virgin olive oil; and one with tomato, sliced mozzarella di Bufala, fresh basil, and extra-virgin olive oil.

7. The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN) was founded in 1984 in Naples to certify pizzerias that use the proper artisan traditions of authentic Neapolitan pizza.

8. Traditional Neapolitan pizza is generally small (about 10 to 12 inches), making them closer to the size of a personal pizza.

9. The Margherita is the most popular type of pizza in Naples, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.

10. You can try traditional Neapolitan pizza at certified pizzerias in Italy and worldwide. Remember to indulge in this culinary masterpiece when traveling to Naples.

Roman-style Pizza And Its Thin-crust

When it comes to Italian pizza, Roman-style pizza is a popular choice. One of the defining traits of this style is its thin crust, which is cracker-like in texture and has a satisfying crunch with each bite. This is because the dough is rolled out and cooked at a higher temperature for a shorter time than the Neapolitan pizza. Roman-style pizza also differs from its Neapolitan counterpart in terms of the toppings. While Neapolitan pizza usually only has a few toppings, Roman-style pizza is laden with various toppings. One classic option is the pizza bianca, which is brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt before being baked. Another popular choice is the pizza al Taglio, which is baked in sheet pans and sold by the slice. This allows for many toppings, including cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, seafood, and more. In Rome, you can find numerous pizzerias and bakeries specializing in Roman-style pizza, including the famous Bonci Pizzarium. And if you’re not in Rome, you can still try this style of pizza at various pizzerias worldwide. 

Sicilian Pizza And Its Thick Crust

Sicilian pizza is a popular variety of Italian pizza originating from Sicily, Italy. It is known for its thick crust, which is spongy, fluffy, and bread-like in texture. But what makes Sicilian pizza crust so thick?

The answer lies in the dough. Sicilian pizza dough is made with 00 flour or semolina made from hard durum wheat, which gives it a more earthy and flavorful taste than other pizza varieties. The dough is also double-leavened, meaning it rises twice before baking. This double-leavening process contributes to the thickness of the crust.

Sicilian pizza is typically rectangular in shape, with a tall, thick crust that is crispy on the bottom and soft in the middle. Traditional Sicilian pizza does not use mozzarella cheese, which is a common topping for other pizza varieties. Instead, a meatless sauce made from tomatoes, onions, herbs, and anchovies is spread over the dough. Breadcrumbs and grated cheese are then layered on top of the sauce.

Interestingly, Sicilian pizza, known as silicone, originated as a street food sold by the slice in Sicily. Nuns first made it in the 17th century to feed the poor. Today, you can find silicone sold in bakeries and enjoy year-round in Sicily.

In the United States, Sicilian-style pizza, which is similar to the original Sicilian pizza but often topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, is a popular pizza variation. This version was brought to the US by Sicilian immigrants and has evolved into what is now known as Detroit-style pizza.

Whether you prefer the original Sicilian-style pizza or the Americanized version, one thing is certain – the thick crust of Sicilian pizza adds a delicious and satisfying texture to every slice. 

Focaccia, Calzone, And Other Variations

Focaccia, calzone, and other variations are just as delicious as traditional Italian pizza. Here are some facts about these popular Italian dishes:

1. Focaccia is a type of flatbread that is baked in the oven. It is typically seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs like rosemary. Focaccia is often served as a side dish or appetizer but can also be used as a base for pizza toppings.

2. Calzone is a folded pizza that is baked in the oven. The filling is typically made with tomato sauce, cheese, and other pizza toppings like pepperoni or sausage. Calzone is great for people who love pizza but want something a little more portable.

3. Stromboli is another folded pizza that is similar to a calzone. However, instead of being filled with sauce and toppings, stromboli is usually filled with Italian meats like salami and ham, as well as cheese and vegetables.

4. Panzerotti is a type of fried pizza pocket that is popular in southern Italy. The dough is stuffed with tomato sauce, cheese, and sometimes ham or sautéed veggies before being deep-fried.

5. Pizza al metro is a unique type of pizza that is sold by the meter. Large, rectangular sheets of pizza dough are covered in tomato sauce and toppings, then cut to order. This style of pizza is great for large groups or parties.

You can go right with Italian pizza, no matter which variation you choose. Try something new and expand your pizza horizons with these tasty variations! 

How To Make Your Own Italian Pizza At Home?

If you want to enjoy a traditional Italian pizza at home, follow these simple steps:

1. Make the dough. The key to a good pizza is the dough. Mix yeast, flour, water, and a pinch of salt, and knead for 10-15 minutes until you have a smooth, elastic ball. Let it rest and proof for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the toppings. Keep it simple and fresh. Use San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add your favorite toppings, but avoid overloading the pizza.

3. Preheat the oven. You need a wood-fired oven for an authentic Italian pizza, but a home oven with a pizza stone will do the trick. Preheat it to the highest temperature for at least 30 minutes.

4. Roll out the dough. Divide the dough into four balls and flatten them with a rolling pin or your hands. Ensure the edges are slightly thicker than the center to create a crust.

5. Add the toppings. Spread the tomato sauce on the dough, leaving some space around the edges. Add the mozzarella and other toppings. Drizzle some olive oil on top.

6. Bake the pizza. Slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

7. Serve hot. Take the pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it. Enjoy your homemade Italian pizza with a glass of red wine.

Making your own Italian pizza at home is easy and fun. Experiment with different toppings and crusts to find your favorite combination. Buon appetito 

Where To Try Different Types Of Italian Pizza In Italy And Around The World

When it comes to trying different types of Italian pizza, many places in Italy and around the world offer unique and authentic options. Here are some recommendations based on factual data:

1. Naples, Italy – Known as the birthplace of pizza, Naples offers traditional Neapolitan pizza made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and buffalo mozzarella. Some popular pizzerias in Naples include L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, Sorbillo, and Pizzeria Di Matteo.

2. Rome, Italy – Roman-style pizza or pizza al Taglio is a popular option in Rome. Bonci Pizzarium is a renowned pizzeria that offers a variety of toppings like potatoes, zucchini flowers, and cured meats.

3. Sicily, Italy – Sicilian pizza is known for its thick crust and heavy toppings. Pizzeria La Piazetta in Taormina is great for Sicilian pizza with toppings like eggplant, olives, and anchovies.

4. New York City, USA – New York-style pizza is a classic option with its large slices and crispy crust. Lombardi’s in Manhattan is one of the oldest pizzerias in the city and is known for its coal-fired brick oven pizza.

5. Chicago, USA – Chicago-style pizza, also known as deep-dish pizza, is a unique option with its thick crust and layers of cheese and toppings. Pequod’s Pizza in Chicago offers a delicious deep-dish pizza with a caramelized crust.

6. Tokyo, Japan – Tokyo offers a unique take on Italian pizza with Japanese ingredients like seafood and seaweed. Seirinkan in Tokyo is a popular pizzeria that offers a variety of unique toppings like eel, shrimp, and squid ink.

7. Melbourne, Australia – Melbourne has a thriving pizza scene with many pizzerias offering authentic Italian pizza. DOC Pizza & Mozzarella Bar in Melbourne is known for its Neapolitan-style pizza made with imported Italian ingredients.

No matter where you are in the world, there is always an opportunity to try different types of Italian pizza. So, go ahead and satisfy your pizza craving with some authentic and delicious options! 

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Italian pizza:

Q: What is Italian pizza?

A: Italian pizza is a flatbread made with and traditionally topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and other ingredients, baked in a wood-fired oven.

Q: What are the ingredients in traditional Neapolitan pizza?

A: Neapolitan pizza is made with simple ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, all served on a soft crust made from high-protein flour.

Q: What is the difference between Roman-style and Neapolitan pizza?

A: Roman-style pizza has a thin and crispy crust, with toppings that can be more abundant than those of traditional Neapolitan pizza. It is cooked at a lower temperature for longer, resulting in a crunchy crust.

Q: What is Sicilian pizza, and what makes it different?

A: Sicilian pizza has a thicker crust and is typically topped with tomato sauce, onions, and anchovies. Cheese is added on top, and it is often cut into squares.

Q: Are there any common toppings for Italian pizza?

A: Common toppings for Italian pizza include tomato sauce, cheese, fresh vegetables like mushrooms or peppers, cured meats like prosciutto or salami, and seafood like anchovies or shrimp.

Q: Is drinking wine with pizza common in Italy?

A: No, drinking beer with pizza in Italy is more common. However, you can also pair Italian wine with your pizza for a delicious combination.

Italian pizza is a delicious and varied culinary tradition with a rich history and many regional variations. Whether you are trying Neapolitan pizza in Naples or enjoying a slice of Sicilian pizza in New York City, there is no shortage of pizza experiences to be had. 

Conclusion

Italian pizza has a long and rich history that has evolved over time through cultural and regional influences. Different varieties of Italian pizza offer unique flavors, ingredients, and preparations. From the classic Margherita to the Sicilian pizza with its thick crust, Italian pizza has become an international phenomenon and a favorite food choice for many. Whether making your own pizza at home or visiting Italy to try various types of pizza, there are endless options to explore.