New York-Style Pizza Recipes and Cooking Method

The Quintessential New York-Style Pizza

New York-style pizza is an iconic symbol of American culinary tradition, celebrated for its distinctive characteristics and unmatched flavor. Originating in the bustling streets of New York City in the early 1900s, this pizza style has become synonymous with the city's vibrant food culture. With its large, foldable slices and crispy yet pliable crust, New York-style pizza offers a unique and delightful eating experience that is cherished by pizza aficionados everywhere.

What Sets New York-Style Pizza Apart?

The defining feature of New York-style pizza is its thin, hand-tossed crust. Made from high-gluten flour, the dough creates a crust that is crisp along the edges but remains soft and chewy in the center. The pizza is typically baked in a gas-fired oven, which helps achieve its characteristic texture.

Toppings for New York-style pizza are straightforward yet flavorful. The base is often a robust tomato sauce seasoned with herbs, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. Classic toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers, but the beauty of this pizza style lies in its versatility, allowing for a wide range of topping combinations.

New York-style pizza is known for its convenience as well as its taste. The large, wide slices can be folded in half, making it a perfect on-the-go meal, especially beloved by New Yorkers rushing through their busy lives. This pizza is more than just food; it's a part of the city's identity, offering a taste of New York's rich culinary tapestry in every bite.

Full Recipe for New York-Style Pizza

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500g bread flour (high-gluten)
• 325ml warm water
• 10g salt
• 2g active dry yeast
• 10g sugar
• 30ml olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 300g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or other preferred toppings

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
• In a large bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
• Add the flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, incorporating the olive oil until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough:
• Divide the risen dough into two equal parts. Shape each into a ball.
• Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Toppings:
• In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with dried oregano and basil. Set aside.
4. Shape the Pizza:
• Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C), with a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside.
• Stretch one dough ball on a floured surface into a 14-inch round, forming a slightly thicker edge for the crust.

5. Assemble the Pizza:
• Transfer the stretched dough to a pizza peel or a floured baking sheet.
• Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
• Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Add any additional toppings.
• Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake the Pizza:
• Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
7. Serve:
• Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.
• Slice and enjoy your New York-style pizza with its crispy edges and delectable toppings!

Whether you enjoy it plain or loaded with your favorite toppings, New York-style pizza delivers a satisfying crunch and flavorful experience, embodying the essence of classic American pizza.