Embarking on a journey to master the art of authentic Italian pizza is a quest for culinary excellence and cultural immersion. From its humble origins in the bustling streets of Naples to its worldwide acclaim, pizza has become a beloved dish, cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavor. In this guide, we’ll delve into the rich history of pizza in Italy, explore the essential ingredients and techniques needed to create an authentic masterpiece, and invite you to experience the timeless allure of wood-fired pizza at Mercato della Pescheria.

The history of pizza in Italy: From the streets of Naples to a global icon

To truly appreciate the essence of Italian pizza, it’s important to understand its storied past. Born in the vibrant port city of Naples in the 18th century, pizza was initially a humble street food enjoyed by the working class. Topped with simple ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, Neapolitan pizza, or “pizza Napoletana,” captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike.

As pizza gained popularity throughout Italy and beyond, it evolved to reflect the country’s diverse regional flavors and culinary traditions. From the hearty pies of Sicily to the thin-crust delights of Rome, each region has put its own unique spin on this beloved dish, contributing to the rich tapestry of Italian gastronomy.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Italian Pizza

Making an authentic Italian pizza starts with quality ingredients and traditional techniques. To recreate the flavors of Italy in your own kitchen, you’ll need a few essential components:

1. Pizza dough: The foundation of any good pizza is the dough. Made from a simple blend of flour, water, yeast, salt and olive oil, authentic Neapolitan pizza dough is soft, elastic and slightly chewy – the perfect canvas for your toppings.

2. San Marzano Tomatoes: Known for their intense sweetness and low acidity, San Marzano tomatoes are the gold standard for pizza sauce. Grown in the volcanic soil of the Campania region, these plum-shaped tomatoes impart a rich, vibrant flavor to your pizza.

3. Fior di Latte Mozzarella: Made from fresh cow’s milk, Fior di Latte mozzarella is prized for its delicate flavor and creamy texture. Unlike buffalo mozzarella, which is made from water buffalo milk, Fior di Latte mozzarella is the traditional choice for Neapolitan pizza.

4. Fresh toppings: From salty prosciutto and savory mushrooms to sweet peppers and tangy onions, the possibilities for pizza toppings are endless. For an authentic Italian experience, opt for fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets.

How to make your own authentic Italian pizza

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Follow these steps to make your own authentic Italian pizza:

1. Prepare the dough: Start by mixing the flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil in a large bowl until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Knead the dough for a few minutes, then let it rest and rise until doubled in size.

2. Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into individual portions and shape each into a round ball. Using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten the dough into a thin, even circle, leaving a slightly thicker rim around the edges.

3. Add the toppings: Spread a thin layer of San Marzano Tomato Sauce over the top of the dough, leaving a small rim around the edges. Place your chosen toppings evenly on top of the sauce, taking care not to overload the pizza.

4. Bake the pizza: Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally with a pizza stone or griddle on the lowest rack. Carefully place the assembled pizza on the hot stone or steel using a pizza peel and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Experience wood-fired pizza at Mercato della Pescheria

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Italian pizza at Mercato della Pescheria. Our wood-fired pizzas are made with care and attention to detail, using only the finest ingredients sourced from local producers and imported from Italy.

MARGHERITA: Experience the classic simplicity of the Margherita pizza, topped with San Marzano tomato sauce and Fior di Latte mozzarella cheese – a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

PROSCIUTTO: Delight your taste buds with the Prosciutto Pizza, featuring San Marzano tomatoes, Prosciutto di Parma, fresh mozzarella and Grana Padano cheese-a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

PORTOBELLO: For a vegetarian option bursting with flavor, try the Portobello Pizza. Topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, Fior di Latte mozzarella, peppers, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes, this pizza is a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce.

Mercato della Pescheria Locations

Whether you find yourself strolling down Española Way in Miami or wandering the streets of St. Mark’s Square in Las Vegas, Mercato della Pescheria invites you to experience the magic of Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Join us in our vibrant, marketplace-inspired restaurant and indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood and homemade pastas.

Making an authentic Italian pizza is more than a culinary endeavor-it is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and craftsmanship. By honoring the rich history and timeless techniques of Italian pizza-making, you can create a masterpiece that pays homage to this beloved dish. And when you’re ready to experience the true essence of Italian cuisine, we invite you to join us at Mercato della Pescheria, where every bite tells a story of passion, authenticity, and the pursuit of culinary excellence.