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scelta dei migliori ingredienti per la pizza napoletana

Choosing the Best Ingredients for an Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

Posted in A Tarantella Recipes.

Neapolitan pizza is much more than just a dish: it’s a culinary experience shaped by centuries of tradition and a passion for gastronomic excellence.

Its authenticity lies not only in the skill of the pizzaiolo, but also in the uncompromising quality of the ingredients.

Here is a detailed guide on how to carefully choose the ingredients you need to create an authentic Neapolitan pizza, from the crust to the toppings.

And if you don’t have the time to select everything yourself, come and visit us in Milan at the traditional Neapolitan pizzeria ’A Tarantella.

1. Flour: the foundation of perfection

Flour is the base on which the greatness of Neapolitan pizza is built. The traditional choice—Type 00 soft wheat flour—is selected for its fine texture and gluten strength. This helps create an elastic dough, essential for a light, soft crust.

Well-known brands such as Caputo (Molino Caputo) are often preferred by pizza professionals for their high quality and their ability to deliver a consistently excellent result.

2. Water: the key to lightness

The water you use is crucial for the lightness and softness of the crust. It’s best to use still water at room temperature, because cold water can slow down fermentation.

Avoid chlorinated water, as chlorine may affect both the flavour and the texture of the pizza.

3. Yeast: the magic of fermentation

Yeast is the secret behind proper dough fermentation. Choosing fresh baker’s yeast helps ensure optimal fermentation and a beautifully aerated crust.

Fresh yeast—ideally from a reliable source—also contributes to the pizza’s characteristic flavour and texture.

4. Tomatoes: the taste of Southern Italy

Tomato sauce is the heart of every Neapolitan pizza. For an authentic, rich flavour, choose San Marzano DOP tomatoes, grown in the fertile area near Mount Vesuvius.

With their dense flesh and naturally sweet taste, they are considered among the best for Neapolitan pizza sauce. Crush them by hand to preserve their texture and unmistakable aroma.

5. Cheese: ultimate creaminess

Nothing captures the creamy richness of Neapolitan pizza like Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP. Made from fresh buffalo milk, it offers a luxurious texture and a delicate flavour that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.

Fresh mozzarella—preferably buffalo—is a must for an authentic Neapolitan pizza.

6. Olive oil: the perfect finishing touch

Olive oil adds the final touch of perfection. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, ideally Italian, to bring a fruity, aromatic note to your pizza.

A drizzle of quality olive oil over a freshly baked pizza enhances the flavours and adds a touch of refinement.

7. Extra ingredients: simplicity is key

Simplicity is essential for true Neapolitan pizza. Keep additional toppings to a few carefully selected ingredients.

Fresh basil, salted anchovies and black olives are classic options that add depth without compromising authenticity.

Where to find fresh ingredients for an authentic Neapolitan pizza

To get the best fresh ingredients, it’s worth choosing specialised places and high-quality suppliers. Here are a few options:

  1. Local markets: often the best place to find fresh, high-quality products, including San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil and other traditional ingredients.

  2. Italian speciality shops: a reliable source for authentic products imported from Italy, including San Marzano DOP, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP, Type 00 flour and more.

  3. Local farms: if you live near farms or producers, you may find excellent ingredients directly from the source, such as fresh mozzarella or organic tomatoes.

  4. Online retailers: many specialised online stores sell high-quality Italian products and deliver to your home.

  5. Farm shops and local producers: some producers offer direct sales of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and other regional ingredients.

Wherever you decide to shop, always look for freshness and quality—because they are the real key to a memorable pizza.

Final thoughts

Making an authentic Neapolitan pizza requires attention to detail and a careful selection of ingredients.

Every component—from flour to cheese—contributes to the distinctive character and extraordinary flavour of this iconic dish.

With the right ingredients and a true love for the art of Neapolitan pizza, you can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.