What is Real Pizza? The Italian Perspective on American Pizza
Italy is the birthplace of pizza, and even the most informed Italians would be quick to point out that the pizza Americans declare as theirs is far removed from the real thing. The origin of pizza in Naples and the traditional Neapolitan style are key to understanding what is considered authentic pizza.
The Historical Fact
Italians know what real pizza is, and it’s rooted in the history of the city of Naples. Pizza originated here and was simple, relying on fresh ingredients and traditional methods. To consider pizza as anything other than Neapolitan is to misunderstand the rich culinary heritage of this Italian city.
Iterventions and Adaptations
While it is true that American pizza has its own distinct styles such as Chicago deep dish and New York thin crust, these adaptations often stray from the original simplicity and quality of Italian pizza. American restaurants have a tendency to supersize and overprocess real Italian ingredients, replacing them with unpronounceable chemical additives. Real Italian pizza, by contrast, places a premium on natural, simple ingredients. Each pizza is meant to be enjoyed by one person, allowing each bite to be a pure experience of the flavors.
In short, the originality of pizza is indisputable. It is rooted in Italy, specifically in Neapolitan traditions. Other American pizza styles are derivatives or modifications of these authentic origins. Chicago deep dish pizza, for instance, stands out as an innovation with its own unique characteristics, but it is still fundamentally different from the Neapolitan style.
My Personal Experience
As someone who has experienced both Italian and American pizza, my personal view is that there is a significant difference. Despite the occasional delicious slice, the American pizza often falls short in terms of authenticity and quality. In my personal experience, American pizza is often overloaded with unnecessary toppings and processes. For instance, when visiting my daughter and son in the USA, I have noticed that the pizza there is quite similar to the good pizza we enjoy in Paris at Italian restaurants. My wife, a French woman from the north, learned to make homemade pizza in Italy with great success, proving that it is not difficult to make simple, authentic pizza.
Neapolitan Pizza: A Benchmark
Neapolitan pizza is the standard against which all other styles should be measured. A true Neapolitan pizza is made with a few high-quality ingredients, usually including fresh tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. It is prepared using traditional methods and ovens, ensuring that the pizza is cooked to perfection. This simplicity and quality are what make Neapolitan pizza unique and beloved.
It is a common misconception among Americans that pizza can be overloaded with various toppings. In Italian tradition, more is not better; quality is better. The toppings should complement the base, enhancing its flavor without overwhelming it. The Neapolitan tradition encourages a simple, yet harmonious combination of ingredients.
In conclusion, while American pizza has its own merits, it is important to recognize the essence of what Italian pizza truly is. Neapolitan pizza stands as a testament to the simplicity and quality that have made it a beloved dish in Italy for centuries.