Introduction
New York-style pizza is renowned for its thin, crispy crust, generous toppings, and foldable slices that capture the essence of the bustling city. Originating in the Big Apple, this iconic pizza style has become a favorite across the United States and beyond. In this guide, we’ll explore the key components of New York-style pizza, provide a step-by-step recipe for making it at home, offer tips for achieving the perfect pie, and celebrate the rich culinary tradition of this beloved dish.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 envelope active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Additional toppings of your choice (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, gently stretch and shape each portion into a round disc, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough rounds to parchment paper or a lightly greased pizza peel.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread a generous layer of the prepared pizza sauce over each dough round, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then add your desired toppings.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Carefully transfer the assembled pizzas to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of New York-style pizza!
Conclusion
New York-style pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that captures the spirit of one of the world’s greatest cities. With its thin, crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and ample toppings, this iconic dish has won the hearts of pizza lovers everywhere. By following this guide and experimenting with your own variations, you can bring the taste of New York into your own kitchen and enjoy the delicious tradition of New York-style pizza with family and friends.