Roman Pizza Recipe

Dive into the flavors of Italy with this authentic Roman Pizza recipe. Roman pizza, known for its thin and crispy crust, is a beloved dish with a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. Unlike its Neapolitan cousin, Roman pizza is characterized by its unique dough preparation, which is typically left to rise for a longer period and is stretched thin before baking. Topped with a variety of fresh ingredients, this pizza offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating a traditional Roman pizza right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 500 grams high-protein flour (bread flour)
• 325 ml water, lukewarm
• 10 grams salt
• 10 grams extra virgin olive oil
• 3 grams dry yeast
• 200 ml tomato sauce
• 250 grams fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water with the dry yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the yeast dissolves and becomes frothy.
2. Mix the ingredients: Add the flour gradually into the yeast mixture, stirring continuously. Add the salt and extra virgin olive oil, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Second rise: Punch down the dough, knead it briefly to remove air bubbles, and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible (usually around 250°C/482°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
7. Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a thin, round shape.
8. Prepare the toppings: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle with dried oregano and basil, then arrange slices of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Bake the pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking tray. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
10. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Servings

This recipe makes two medium-sized Roman pizzas, ideal for serving 2-4 people depending on appetite. Buon appetito!

Nutritional Information for One Serving

Tools Needed to Prepare the Recipe

• Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet
• Rolling Pin
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Pastry Brush
• Oven Mitts
• Knife or Pizza Cutter
• Large Spoon or Ladle

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

1. Dough Preparation: Use cold water and refrigerate the dough for at least 24 hours to allow it to ferment slowly. This will enhance the flavor and texture.
2. Kneading: Properly knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This often takes about 10-15 minutes by hand.
3. Resting Time: Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 2 hours before shaping to make it easier to stretch.
4. Shaping the Dough: Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch the dough into a rectangular shape similar to traditional Roman pizza. Avoid overworking the dough as this can make it tough.
5. Toppings: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor profile. Consider traditional toppings like fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to its highest setting (usually around 500°F or 260°C) and place the pizza stone inside for at least 30 minutes before baking.
7. Monitoring: Watch the pizza closely during baking to prevent burning, as it may cook faster than expected at high temperatures.
8. Using Parchment Paper: If you’re concerned about sticking, bake the pizza on parchment paper and then remove the paper halfway through baking for a crispier crust.

Skill Level

Intermediate

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

• Serve your Roman pizza hot, straight from the oven, to best enjoy the crispy crust and melty cheese.
• Slice the pizza into squares or strips for a more traditional Roman style.
• Present the pizza on a wooden board or a rustic serving platter, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and aroma.
• Accompany the pizza with a fresh, simple salad and a glass of light, crisp white wine or an Italian beer for a complete meal.
• Provide a small bowl of extra virgin olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar for dipping the pizza crust.

Storage Conditions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Calcium: The cheese provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
• High in Protein: The combination of dough and cheese gives a good amount of protein, which helps in building and repairing tissues.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes used in the sauce are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease.
• Whole Grains: If you use whole grain flour, it can add fiber to your diet, aiding in digestion and helping to maintain a healthy weight.

Recommendations for Vegans

• Cheese Substitute: Use vegan cheese options such as those made from almond or cashew nuts.
• Dough: The dough recipe is typically vegan, but verify that no dairy or animal-derived products are used.
• Toppings: Utilize a variety of fresh vegetables like spinach, artichokes, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Drizzle with a good quality olive oil or a vegan pesto sauce for added flavor.

Similar Recipes

• Margherita Pizza: A classic, simple pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
• Neapolitan Pizza: This traditional pizza from Naples features a soft and chewy crust with minimal toppings.
• Focaccia: An Italian flatbread that is similar in texture to Roman pizza but thicker, often topped with herbs and olive oil.
• White Pizza (Pizza Bianca): A pizza with a white sauce base, typically topped with ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, and sometimes fresh spinach or mushrooms.
• Vegetarian Pizza: Packed with a variety of colorful and nutritious vegetables, ideal for those looking to increase their vegetable intake.

Enjoy making and savoring your Roman Pizza! Buon Appetito!