How to Make Perfect Neapolitan Pizza Dough
Neapolitan pizza, with its rich history and distinct flavor profile, has become a beloved staple in the world of pizza. The key to achieving that perfect, golden-brown crust lies in the dough itself. Crafting the perfect Neapolitan pizza dough requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the ingredients and techniques involved. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making the perfect Neapolitan pizza dough, ensuring that your homemade pies will be the envy of your friends and family.
Ingredients
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 500g (17.6 oz) of “00” flour
– 300ml (10.1 oz) of water, at room temperature
– 1 packet (7g) of active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
Preparation
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form. Continue to knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Once the dough is ready, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shaping the Dough
1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and turn it onto a floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Using your hands, stretch and shape each piece into a round ball.
3. Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the dough to relax and makes it easier to work with.
Rolling Out the Dough
1. Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally around 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
2. Take one of the shaped dough balls and place it on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough out into a 12-inch (30.5 cm) circle, ensuring it is thin and even.
3. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process with the second dough ball.
Baking the Pizza
1. Once the dough is ready, top it with your favorite toppings, such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
2. Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for about 1.5 to 2 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
3. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to making the perfect Neapolitan pizza dough. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
