Pizza is an Italian dish that is usually made with a yeasted flatbread topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and other things like meat, vegetables, and condiments. It is typically baked in an oven and often served in slices. It has become a popular food worldwide and can be found in many different variations and styles.
History
The origin of pizza can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with flatbreads being topped with oils, herbs, and other toppings. However, the modern pizza as we know it today originated in the 18th century in the city of Naples, Italy. The original pizza, the Margherita, was made with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, and was said to resemble the colors of the Italian flag. From there, pizza quickly spread throughout Italy and eventually to the rest of the world, where it has become a popular and beloved food in many cultures.
Types
There are many different types, and the toppings and styles can vary greatly depending on the region or country. Some of the most popular types of pizza include:
- Neapolitan Pizza: This is the traditional one from Naples, Italy, and is made with simple ingredients such as tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. It is typically cooked in a wood-fired oven and has a soft and chewy texture.
- New York-style Pizza: This type is characterized by its large, thin, and crispy crust, and is typically sold by the slice. The slices are often folded in half before eating.
- Chicago-style Pizza: This type is characterized by its deep-dish crust, which is filled with cheese and toppings before being topped with a thick layer of tomato sauce.
- Sicilian Pizza: This type of pizza is characterized by its thick, square-shaped crust and is typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and a variety of meats and vegetables.
- California-style Pizza: This type is characterized by its use of fresh and unconventional ingredients, such as avocados, smoked salmon, and goat cheese.
- Stuffed Pizza: This type of pizza is characterized by a second layer of dough on top of the toppings and cheese, creating a stuffed sandwich-like effect.
These are just a few examples of the many different types of pizza that exist, and new variations are constantly being created.
Most famous types
There are many famous types, but some of the most well-known and popular are:
- Margherita Pizza: This is the classic pizza from Naples, Italy, and is made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It is simple and traditional, with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
- Pepperoni Pizza: This is one of the most popular types in the United States and Canada, and is made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni sausage. It is a classic pizza that appeals to many people.
- Hawaiian Pizza: This is made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pineapple, and ham. It is a controversial pizza as it’s not a traditional pizza from Italy but it’s famous in America and Canada.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: This pizza is made with BBQ sauce, mozzarella cheese, chicken and sometimes with red onions, green bell pepper and cilantro, It’s a popular pizza in North America and other countries.
- Margarita Pizza with Prosciutto: This pizza is made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil and prosciutto. This is an Italian classic pizza and it’s famous in many countries.
These are just a few examples of famous pizza types, and there are many more variations and styles that are popular around the world.
Recipe
Here is a basic recipe for making pizza at home:
Ingredients:
- Sugar 1 tsp
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110-115 degrees F)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt 1 tsp
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of your choice (such as pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, etc.)
Instructions:
- Firstly, In a large bowl, combine sugar, yeast, and warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Add 2 cups flour, olive oil, and salt to yeast mixture, and stir until well combined.
- Gradually add remaining flour, and mix until dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface, and knead for about 8 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Then place dough in a greased bowl, and turn to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- After that, preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Then roll out dough to desired thickness on a floured surface.
- After that transfer dough to a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Then spread tomato sauce over dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Sprinkle cheese and toppings over sauce and finally,
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Note: This recipe is for a basic pizza, you can use any sauce, cheese, or toppings you like.
References
01. Description, Ingredients, & Types | Britannica
03.Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster
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