Mariella Barbato Neapolitan pizza, a dish that represents the city of Naples in its purest essence. In every corner of the city you can find wood-fired ovens that bake the best pizzas, from the simplest to the most elaborate. Pizza is not only a delicacy, but a true cultural icon that has conquered the hearts (and stomachs) of the whole world.
But what is the true origin of pizza, when was it born and how did it become the dish we know and love today? Let’s answer these questions and discover a little more about the history of this legendary food.
Where was the Neapolitan pizza born?
To answer this question, we must first understand that bread is one of mankind’s oldest prepared foods. Its origins date back to the Neolithic, when different civilizations began to mix flour and water to create the first forms of bread.
Throughout history, this bread was seasoned with various ingredients such as spices, cheeses or fruits, and often had a flattened shape, similar to today’s pizza. These preparations were common in Mediterranean regions, suggesting that the idea of pizza has very ancient roots.
The Big Change: The Arrival of the Tomato
In its beginnings, pizza was completely white, without tomato. It was not until the arrival of this ingredient in Europe, in 1770, that pizza began to transform into what we know today. Tomato, brought from America, was quickly adopted in Neapolitan cuisine and became an essential element of pizza.
The creation of the Margherita pizza
The real rise of pizza came about thanks to a legendary episode. It is said that in 1889, in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, the Neapolitan pizza maker Raffaele Esposito created a special pizza for her. This pizza represented the colors of the Italian flag: red (tomato), green (basil) and white (mozzarella). Thus was born the iconic Pizza Margherita, which to this day remains one of the most popular in the world.
Neapolitan pizza today
Since that time, pizza has continued to evolve. Although the traditional Neapolitan pizza is still the king, today there are hundreds of versions with an infinite variety of toppings. However, the essence of pizza remains the same: a perfect combination of simplicity, flavor and passion.
Naples is still the cradle of pizza, and its pizza tradition has been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. A well-deserved recognition for a dish that, although it has conquered the world, has never forgotten its Neapolitan roots.
What are the traditional Neapolitan pizzas?
Today there are countless varieties of pizza, with combinations of ingredients that are constantly reinvented. However, the essence of Neapolitan pizza remains in the simplicity of its classic flavors, those that best reflect the gastronomic culture of Naples. Here are some of the most representative pizzas:
Margherita – The most iconic of all, created in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. Its combination of tomato, mozzarella, basil and olive oil represents the colors of the Italian flag.
Marinara – A simple but flavorful pizza with tomato, garlic, oregano and olive oil. Its name comes from the Neapolitan fishermen who used to eat it after returning from the sea.
Quattro Stagioni – A tribute to the four seasons of the year, with tomato, mozzarella, artichokes, mushrooms and olives, each ingredient representing a different season.
Diavola – For lovers of intense flavors, this pizza has tomato, mozzarella and spicy salami, providing an irresistible spicy touch.
Calzone – A variant of the traditional pizza, folded on itself and stuffed. The most typical version in Naples is made with ricotta and salami, or with tomato and a mixture of cheeses.
Montanara – The jewel of Neapolitan fried pizza. The dough is fried until crispy and then tomato, mozzarella and basil are added, finishing with a brief baking to enhance the flavor.
Neapolitan pizza and its versions in the world
Neapolitan pizza is undoubtedly the most famous pizza in the world. Its airy dough, fluffy edges and use of fresh ingredients have made it a true gastronomic treasure. However, each country has adapted pizza to its own tastes and traditions, creating unique versions that reflect its culture.
Variations of Pizza in the World
Italy: In addition to the classic Neapolitan, in Rome they prefer a thinner and crispier dough. There is also the “pizza al taglio”, sold in rectangular portions.
United States: There are multiple versions, such as the New York Style, thin and flexible, ideal for eating folded, and the Chicago Deep Dish, with high edges, lots of sauce and cheese in abundance.
Argentina: It is characterized by its thick dough and abundant cheese. The fugazzeta, with caramelized onion and without tomato, is one of the most popular.
Brazil: Brazilian pizza includes unusual ingredients such as corn, peas and even mayonnaise. There are also sweet versions with chocolate or fruit.
Japan: Here you can find pizzas with seafood, Japanese mayonnaise or spicy cod roe, adding an exotic touch.
Sweden: One of the most peculiar combinations is pizza with banana, curry and ham, an unexpected but very popular mix.
Despite all these variations, the essence of pizza remains the same: a baked dough with delicious toppings on top. The Neapolitan version is the most iconic and still sets the global benchmark, but each culture has given its own twist to this classic.
And you, which version of pizza do you prefer? Do you dare to try any of these? Let me know in the comments! 🍕
With love, your Neapolitan girl!
