Introduction: What is New York-style pizza?
New York-style pizza is a classic American pizza that originated in New York City in the early 1900s. It is characterized by its thin, crispy crust, large slices, and simple toppings. New York-style pizza is widely considered to be one of the best pizzas in the world, and it has become a cultural icon of New York City.
Thin crust and crispy texture
One of the defining features of New York-style pizza is its thin crust. The crust is crispy and chewy, with a slight char on the bottom. The dough is made with high-gluten flour, which gives it a chewy texture, and is usually rolled out by hand. The crust is then baked in a high-temperature oven, which creates a crispy texture. This thin crust allows the toppings to be the star of the show, rather than the dough.
Large slices and foldability
New York-style pizza slices are famously large, often as big as your face. They are also foldable, which makes them easy to eat on the go. The foldability is due to the thinness of the crust, which allows it to be easily folded without breaking. This is a practical feature that has made New York-style pizza a popular choice for busy New Yorkers.
Tomato sauce and cheese ratio
Another important characteristic of New York-style pizza is the tomato sauce and cheese ratio. The sauce is typically made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, and is spread thinly over the crust. The cheese is usually a blend of mozzarella and provolone, and is also applied thinly. This allows the toppings to shine, while still providing enough flavor and texture to make the pizza delicious.
Toppings: simplicity is key
New York-style pizza toppings are simple and classic. The most popular toppings are pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. However, you can also find specialty toppings like artichoke hearts, spinach, and ricotta cheese. The key is to keep the toppings minimal and let the flavors of the crust, sauce, and cheese shine through.
Cooking method: high-temperature oven
New York-style pizza is cooked in a high-temperature oven, usually around 500-550 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat allows the crust to cook quickly and develop a crispy texture, while still maintaining a chewy interior. The oven is often made of brick or stone, which helps to retain heat and give the pizza a slight char on the bottom.
Water quality and dough preparation
Water quality and dough preparation are also important factors in making New York-style pizza. New York City’s tap water is famously high in minerals, which can affect the dough’s texture and flavor. Many pizzerias in New York City use this water to make their dough, which is mixed by hand and left to rise for at least 24 hours. This long fermentation time allows the dough to develop a complex flavor and texture.
History and cultural influence
New York-style pizza has a rich history and cultural influence. It was originally made by Italian immigrants in New York City in the early 1900s, and quickly became a popular street food. Today, New York-style pizza is synonymous with New York City and is enjoyed by people all over the world. It has even inspired its own style of pizza, known as "New York-style" pizza, which is now found in pizzerias all over the United States.
Comparison to Neapolitan pizza
New York-style pizza is often compared to Neapolitan pizza, which is another classic Italian pizza. Neapolitan pizza is known for its soft, chewy crust and minimal toppings. Unlike New York-style pizza, Neapolitan pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a lower temperature. While both styles of pizza are delicious, they are very different in terms of texture, toppings, and cooking method.
Comparison to Chicago-style pizza
New York-style pizza is also often compared to Chicago-style pizza, which is a deep-dish pizza. Chicago-style pizza has a thick, buttery crust and is filled with cheese and toppings. While New York-style pizza is thin and crispy, Chicago-style pizza is dense and filling. Both styles of pizza are popular in the United States, but they are very different in terms of texture, toppings, and cooking method.
Where to find the best New York-style pizza
New York City is the best place to find authentic New York-style pizza. There are countless pizzerias throughout the city that specialize in this classic pizza. Some of the most famous pizzerias include Lombardi’s, Di Fara Pizza, and Joe’s Pizza. However, you can also find great New York-style pizza in other parts of the United States and even around the world.
Conclusion: the unique characteristics of New York-style pizza
New York-style pizza is a classic American pizza that is loved by people all over the world. Its thin, crispy crust, large slices, and simple toppings make it a unique and delicious pizza. The use of high-quality water and long fermentation times give the dough a complex flavor and texture. If you’re ever in New York City, be sure to try a classic slice of New York-style pizza.
