Have you ever wondered which pizzas are considered the "best pizzas in the world"? With pizza being one of the most beloved foods globally, it’s no surprise that food enthusiasts and travelers alike are constantly in search of the best slice. From the traditional Neapolitan pizza in Italy to the innovative twists found in the bustling streets of New York, the variety and creativity in pizza-making are endless. This article aims to explore the rich tapestry of pizza styles, flavors, and origins, showcasing why these pizzas have earned their rightful place among the best in the world.
Pizza isn’t just food; it’s an experience that transcends borders, cultures, and taste buds. It’s a dish that has been reinvented and reimagined countless times, each version giving us a new perspective on what pizza can be. Whether you’re a fan of thin crust, deep dish, or something in between, there’s a pizza out there that can satisfy your craving. This article will take you on a journey to discover the diverse and delectable options that constitute the best pizzas in the world, celebrating the artisans and chefs who bring these creations to life.
In the following sections, we will dive deep into the history, preparation methods, and distinct characteristics of various pizzas around the globe. We'll explore the traditional techniques, the innovative approaches, and the cultural influences that make each pizza unique. With a mix of engaging stories, expert insights, and mouth-watering descriptions, this guide will not only inform but also inspire you to embark on your own pizza adventure. Let’s uncover the secrets behind the best pizzas in the world and why they continue to captivate our hearts and palates.
Table of Contents
- History of Pizza
- Neapolitan Pizza: The Classic Italian Delight
- New York Style Pizza: The American Classic
- Chicago Deep Dish: A Hearty Indulgence
- Sourdough Pizza: A Tangy Twist
- California Style Pizza: Innovation on a Plate
- Detroit Style Pizza: The Crispy Edged Delight
- St. Louis Style Pizza: A Unique Midwestern Treat
- Parmigiana Pizza: A Fusion of Flavors
- Seafood Pizza: A Taste of the Ocean
- Vegan Pizza: Plant-Based Perfection
- Dessert Pizza: Sweet Endings
- Regional Pizzas: Hidden Gems
- Pizza Pairings: Enhancing Your Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
History of Pizza
The history of pizza dates back to ancient times, long before it became the global phenomenon it is today. The earliest form of pizza can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where flatbreads were topped with various ingredients as a way to add flavor and variety to the diet. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century in Naples, Italy, that pizza began to take on the form we recognize today.
In Naples, pizza was considered a food for the poor, sold by street vendors and eaten by hand. It was simple yet satisfying, made with basic ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt, topped with tomatoes, cheese, and sometimes anchovies. The introduction of tomatoes to Europe from the Americas was a game-changer, as they became a staple in Italian cuisine and a key component of pizza.
The turning point for pizza’s popularity came in the late 19th century when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. Legend has it that she fell in love with a pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. This pizza was named in her honor, and the Margherita pizza was born, cementing pizza’s place in Italian culture and eventually the world.
As Italian immigrants moved to other countries, they brought their beloved pizza recipes with them, introducing pizza to new audiences. In the United States, pizza quickly became a popular dish, leading to the development of regional styles like New York style and Chicago deep dish. Each region added its own twist, reflecting local tastes and preferences, and thus began the evolution of pizza into the diverse culinary delight we know today.
Neapolitan Pizza: The Classic Italian Delight
Neapolitan pizza is the original pizza, hailing from Naples, Italy, and is often considered the benchmark for what authentic pizza should be. This style of pizza is characterized by its simple yet high-quality ingredients, including a soft and chewy crust, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil. The dough is made with finely milled Italian flour, water, salt, and yeast, and it is hand-stretched to create a thin crust with a puffy, charred edge known as the cornicione.
One of the key elements of Neapolitan pizza is its cooking method. Traditionally, it is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature of around 900°F (485°C) for no more than 90 seconds. This rapid cooking process creates a tender and flavorful crust with a slightly charred surface, adding to the pizza’s unique taste and texture. The soft center, combined with the fresh and tangy tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella, makes for a delectable bite that melts in your mouth.
Neapolitan pizza has a strict set of guidelines established by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), an organization dedicated to preserving the authenticity and tradition of this iconic dish. According to AVPN, a true Neapolitan pizza must adhere to specific rules regarding ingredients, dough preparation, and cooking techniques. This commitment to tradition ensures that Neapolitan pizza maintains its status as one of the best pizzas in the world.
Despite its simplicity, Neapolitan pizza has inspired countless variations and adaptations worldwide. Chefs and home bakers alike experiment with different toppings and techniques, but the essence of Neapolitan pizza remains the same: a celebration of quality ingredients and time-honored traditions. For pizza purists, a visit to Naples is a pilgrimage, where they can savor the authentic taste of Neapolitan pizza in its birthplace.
New York Style Pizza: The American Classic
New York style pizza is iconic in its own right, known for its large, foldable slices and thin, crispy crust. This style of pizza emerged in the early 20th century, thanks to Italian immigrants who brought their pizza-making skills to New York City. Over time, New Yorkers developed their own twist on the classic pizza, resulting in a version that has become synonymous with the city itself.
The key to New York style pizza is its dough, which is made with high-gluten flour, contributing to its characteristic chewy texture. The dough is hand-tossed and stretched to create a thin crust that is sturdy enough to hold a generous amount of toppings. The sauce is typically made from crushed tomatoes and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, while the cheese is usually a combination of mozzarella and other cheeses like provolone or parmesan for added flavor.
New York style pizza is traditionally baked in a gas-powered oven at a slightly lower temperature than a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crisp crust with a subtle char. The slices are large and wide, often requiring folding to eat, a method that has become a signature part of the New York pizza experience. This pizza is often sold by the slice, making it a convenient and affordable option for busy city dwellers and tourists alike.
Over the years, New York style pizza has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless imitators and variations across the United States and beyond. Its popularity is due in part to its versatility, as it can accommodate a wide range of toppings, from classic pepperoni to more adventurous options like buffalo chicken or white pizza with ricotta and spinach. Despite these variations, the essence of New York style pizza remains the same: a delicious, satisfying slice that captures the spirit of the city.
Chicago Deep Dish: A Hearty Indulgence
Chicago deep dish pizza offers a stark contrast to the thin-crust varieties found elsewhere, with its thick, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. This style of pizza originated in Chicago in the mid-20th century and has since become a beloved staple of the city’s culinary scene.
The defining feature of Chicago deep dish pizza is its crust, which is more akin to a pie crust than a traditional pizza crust. It is made with a combination of flour, cornmeal, and butter, giving it a rich, flaky texture. The dough is pressed into a deep, round pan, creating a tall edge that can hold the substantial fillings. The pizza is then layered with cheese, toppings, and a thick tomato sauce, with the order of ingredients reversed compared to other styles: cheese first, then toppings, followed by sauce.
Chicago deep dish pizza is typically baked in a deep-dish pan for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the crust to develop its characteristic golden-brown color. The result is a hearty, indulgent pizza that is best enjoyed with a knife and fork. Popular toppings include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and bell peppers, but the true star of the show is the combination of gooey cheese and tangy tomato sauce.
While Chicago deep dish pizza is often associated with its namesake city, it has gained a devoted following far beyond the Windy City. Many pizzerias across the United States offer their own take on this style, each with slight variations in crust, sauce, and toppings. For those seeking a filling and flavorful pizza experience, Chicago deep dish is a must-try, offering a unique take on the classic dish.
Sourdough Pizza: A Tangy Twist
Sourdough pizza has gained popularity in recent years as a delicious and artisanal alternative to traditional pizza crusts. The use of sourdough starter, a naturally fermented mixture of flour and water, gives the crust a distinctive tangy flavor and a unique texture that sets it apart from other styles.
The process of making sourdough pizza begins with creating or maintaining a sourdough starter. This involves combining flour and water and allowing it to ferment over several days, during which wild yeast and bacteria develop, causing the mixture to become bubbly and active. This starter is then used as the leavening agent for the pizza dough, replacing commercial yeast.
The fermentation process not only imparts a tangy flavor to the crust but also contributes to its airy, chewy texture. Sourdough pizza dough is typically left to rise slowly over an extended period, allowing the flavors to develop fully. This slow rise also results in a crust that is crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with a slight chewiness that is characteristic of sourdough bread.
Sourdough pizza can be topped with a wide range of ingredients, from classic Margherita toppings to more inventive combinations like prosciutto and arugula or roasted vegetables and goat cheese. The tangy crust pairs well with both traditional and modern toppings, offering a versatile canvas for culinary creativity.
In recent years, sourdough pizza has become a favorite among home bakers and professional pizzaiolos alike, thanks to its complex flavor and artisanal appeal. For those seeking a unique and flavorful pizza experience, sourdough pizza offers a delicious twist on the classic dish.
California Style Pizza: Innovation on a Plate
California style pizza is known for its creative toppings and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. This style of pizza emerged in the 1980s, thanks to visionary chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Ed LaDou, who sought to reinvent traditional pizza by incorporating elements of California cuisine.
The defining characteristic of California style pizza is its innovative approach to toppings. Unlike traditional pizzas that adhere to a set list of ingredients, California style pizzas often feature a diverse array of toppings, ranging from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to exotic meats and seafood. This emphasis on creativity and freshness reflects California's culinary ethos, which values locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
The crust of a California style pizza is typically thin and crisp, serving as a blank canvas for the inventive toppings. The dough is made with high-quality flour and often includes whole grains or other alternative flours for added flavor and texture. The pizza is usually baked in a wood-fired or gas oven, resulting in a crisp, golden crust that complements the fresh toppings.
Some popular toppings for California style pizza include smoked salmon and crème fraîche, goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, or fig and prosciutto. These combinations highlight the versatility of this style and the endless possibilities for flavor pairings. California style pizza has gained a loyal following for its inventive and delicious offerings, appealing to those who seek a modern twist on the classic dish.
Detroit Style Pizza: The Crispy Edged Delight
Detroit style pizza is a unique and lesser-known style that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This pizza originated in Detroit, Michigan, in the mid-20th century and is characterized by its rectangular shape, thick crust, and crispy, caramelized edges.
The crust of Detroit style pizza is similar to a focaccia, made with a high-hydration dough that results in a light, airy texture. The dough is pressed into a rectangular pan, often a blue steel automotive parts tray, which gives the pizza its distinctive shape. The crust is topped with a generous layer of cheese, traditionally a blend of brick and mozzarella, which extends to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, caramelized cheese crust when baked.
Another defining feature of Detroit style pizza is the sauce, which is typically ladled over the cheese in thick stripes after the pizza has been baked. This unconventional approach helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy and allows the flavors of the sauce and cheese to meld together perfectly. Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, and vegetables, but the focus remains on the delicious crust and cheese.
Detroit style pizza is baked in a high-temperature oven, resulting in a crisp, golden crust with a soft, chewy interior. The combination of flavors and textures makes this style of pizza a delightful and satisfying option for pizza lovers seeking something different. As more pizzerias across the country offer their take on this regional specialty, Detroit style pizza continues to earn its place among the best pizzas in the world.
St. Louis Style Pizza: A Unique Midwestern Treat
St. Louis style pizza is a distinctive Midwestern creation known for its ultra-thin crust, unique cheese blend, and square slices. This regional specialty originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and has a dedicated following among locals and visitors alike.
The crust of St. Louis style pizza is unlike any other, made without yeast and rolled out to create an extremely thin, cracker-like texture. This crisp crust provides a light and crunchy base for the toppings, allowing the flavors to shine through. The pizza is traditionally baked on a pizza stone or directly on the oven rack, enhancing its crispiness.
One of the defining features of St. Louis style pizza is the use of Provel cheese, a processed cheese blend made from cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. This cheese melts smoothly and has a creamy texture, contributing to the pizza’s unique flavor profile. The sauce is typically sweet and tangy, balancing the rich, creamy cheese.
St. Louis style pizza is often cut into small, square pieces, a serving method known as "party cut" or "tavern cut." This approach makes the pizza easy to share and enjoy, whether at a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends. Popular toppings include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and green peppers, but the emphasis remains on the distinctive crust and cheese.
While St. Louis style pizza may not be as well-known as other regional varieties, it offers a unique and delicious experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout option among the best pizzas in the world.
Parmigiana Pizza: A Fusion of Flavors
Parmigiana pizza is a delightful fusion of Italian culinary traditions, combining the classic flavors of eggplant parmigiana with the beloved pizza format. This innovative dish offers a unique twist on traditional pizza, appealing to those who enjoy bold and hearty flavors.
The base of a Parmigiana pizza is typically a standard pizza crust, made with flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough is rolled out to create a thin or medium-thick crust, depending on personal preference. The pizza is then topped with a rich tomato sauce, seasoned with garlic, basil, and oregano, providing a flavorful foundation for the toppings.
The star of the show is the eggplant, which is thinly sliced, breaded, and lightly fried before being added to the pizza. This preparation method ensures that the eggplant is tender and flavorful, with a satisfying crunch. The eggplant is layered over the tomato sauce, followed by generous amounts of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, creating a gooey and cheesy topping that perfectly complements the eggplant.
Parmigiana pizza can be further enhanced with additional toppings like fresh basil, roasted red peppers, or even slices of prosciutto for added flavor and texture. The pizza is baked in a high-temperature oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the crust is crisp and cooked through.
This fusion of flavors and textures makes Parmigiana pizza a standout option among the best pizzas in the world. Its combination of rich tomato sauce, tender eggplant, and creamy cheese offers a satisfying and indulgent experience for pizza lovers seeking something different.
Seafood Pizza: A Taste of the Ocean
Seafood pizza is a delicious and intriguing option for those who enjoy the flavors of the ocean. This style of pizza combines the traditional elements of pizza with a variety of fresh seafood ingredients, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish that appeals to seafood enthusiasts.
The base of a seafood pizza is typically a thin or medium-thick crust, made with high-quality flour and a simple dough recipe. The crust serves as a blank canvas for the seafood toppings, allowing their flavors to shine through. The pizza is often topped with a light tomato sauce or a creamy white sauce, which complements the seafood without overwhelming it.
Common seafood toppings for pizza include shrimp, scallops, crab, clams, and mussels, all of which are typically cooked lightly before being added to the pizza. These ingredients bring a fresh and briny flavor to the dish, reminiscent of the ocean. Additional toppings like garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon zest can enhance the seafood's natural flavors and add depth to the pizza.
Cheese choices for seafood pizza can vary, but mild options like mozzarella or fontina are often preferred for their ability to melt smoothly and complement the seafood. The pizza is baked in a high-temperature oven until the crust is crisp, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Seafood pizza offers a delightful departure from traditional meat and vegetable toppings, providing a fresh and flavorful option for those seeking a taste of the ocean. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice among the best pizzas in the world.
Vegan Pizza: Plant-Based Perfection
Vegan pizza offers a delicious and satisfying alternative for those following a plant-based diet or seeking a healthier option. This style of pizza eliminates animal products, instead focusing on plant-based ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.
The crust of a vegan pizza is typically made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, much like traditional pizza crusts. However, it may also include whole grains or alternative flours for added flavor and nutrition. The dough is rolled out to create a thin or medium-thick crust, depending on personal preference.
For the sauce, vegan pizzas often use a traditional tomato sauce, free of animal products, or a creative alternative like pesto or a creamy cashew-based sauce. These options provide a flavorful base for the toppings while adhering to a plant-based diet.
Toppings for vegan pizza are where creativity truly shines. Popular options include a variety of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and spinach, as well as plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or vegan sausage. Nutritional yeast, a deactivated yeast with a cheesy flavor, is often used as a cheese substitute, while vegan cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy can provide a creamy, melty texture.
Vegan pizza is typically baked in a high-temperature oven until the crust is crisp and the toppings are cooked through. The result is a delicious and satisfying pizza that offers all the flavors and textures of traditional pizza, without the use of animal products.
With its focus on fresh, plant-based ingredients, vegan pizza is a healthy and flavorful option for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence. Its versatility and creativity make it a standout choice among the best pizzas in the world.
Dessert Pizza: Sweet Endings
Dessert pizza offers a creative and delicious way to enjoy pizza as a sweet treat. This style of pizza transforms the traditional savory dish into a delightful dessert, using sweet ingredients to create a unique and indulgent experience that appeals to those with a sweet tooth.
The base of a dessert pizza is typically a standard pizza crust, made with flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, it may also include sweet elements like sugar or cinnamon for added flavor. The dough is rolled out to create a thin or medium-thick crust, depending on personal preference.
Instead of a savory sauce, dessert pizzas are often topped with sweet spreads like chocolate hazelnut spread, caramel, or fruit preserves. These spreads provide a flavorful foundation for the sweet toppings and enhance the overall dessert experience.
Toppings for dessert pizza can include a wide range of sweet ingredients, such as fresh fruit, chocolate chips, nuts, or marshmallows. Popular combinations include strawberries and chocolate, bananas and caramel, or apples and cinnamon. These toppings add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the dessert pizza.
Dessert pizzas are typically baked in a high-temperature oven until the crust is crisp and the toppings are heated through. The result is a delicious and indulgent treat that offers a unique twist on the traditional pizza experience.
Whether enjoyed as a special treat or a fun addition to a pizza party, dessert pizza offers a sweet and satisfying option for those seeking a creative take on the classic dish. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice among the best pizzas in the world.
Regional Pizzas: Hidden Gems
While well-known styles like Neapolitan, New York, and Chicago deep dish dominate the pizza scene, there are countless regional pizzas around the world that offer unique flavors and experiences. These hidden gems reflect the diverse culinary traditions and local ingredients of their respective regions, providing a delicious and authentic taste of their origins.
One such regional specialty is the Turkish pide, a boat-shaped flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, minced meat, and vegetables. This dish is often considered the Turkish version of pizza, offering a delicious and flavorful alternative to traditional styles.
In France, the tarte flambée, also known as flammkuchen, is a popular regional pizza. This thin-crust dish originates from the Alsace region and is typically topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful and satisfying option for pizza lovers seeking something different.
In Japan, okonomiyaki is a popular savory pancake that is often compared to pizza. This dish is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and is topped with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, pork, and vegetables. The pancake is then drizzled with a sweet and savory sauce and garnished with mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed, creating a delicious and flavorful experience.
Other regional pizzas include the Brazilian pizza, which often features unique toppings like catupiry cheese, hearts of palm, and corn, and the Indian naan pizza, which uses naan bread as the base and is topped with a variety of Indian-inspired ingredients, such as paneer, tikka masala, or curry sauce.
These regional pizzas offer a delicious and authentic taste of their respective cultures, providing a unique and flavorful experience for those willing to explore beyond the traditional styles. Their combination of local ingredients and culinary traditions makes them a standout choice among the best pizzas in the world.
Pizza Pairings: Enhancing Your Experience
Pairing pizza with the right beverages and side dishes can elevate the dining experience, enhancing the flavors and textures of the pizza and creating a more enjoyable meal. With the wide variety of pizza styles and toppings available, there are countless pairing options to explore.
When it comes to beverages, beer and wine are classic choices that complement pizza beautifully. For a traditional Neapolitan pizza, a light and refreshing lager or pilsner can balance the flavors of the tomato sauce and mozzarella, while a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio can enhance the fresh basil and olive oil. For heartier pizzas like Chicago deep dish or meat-laden New York style, a robust red wine like Chianti or a rich amber ale can complement the bold flavors and rich textures.
For those seeking non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate between bites, while a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can provide a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors of the pizza.
Side dishes can also enhance the pizza experience, providing additional flavors and textures to enjoy alongside the main dish. A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pizza, while garlic knots or breadsticks can provide a satisfying accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce. For a more indulgent option, a side of mozzarella sticks or fried calamari can add a delicious and flavorful contrast to the pizza.
Pairing pizza with the right beverages and side dishes can create a more enjoyable and memorable dining experience, allowing you to savor the flavors and textures of the best pizzas in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of pizza crust?
The best type of pizza crust depends on personal preference. Some people prefer a thin and crispy crust, while others enjoy a thick and chewy crust. Popular options include Neapolitan, New York style, and Chicago deep dish, each offering a unique texture and flavor.
What are the most popular pizza toppings?
Popular pizza toppings vary by region and personal preference, but some common favorites include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. Other popular options include olives, anchovies, and various cheeses.
Can pizza be healthy?
Pizza can be part of a balanced diet when made with healthy ingredients and consumed in moderation. Opting for whole-grain crusts, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and reduced-fat cheese can make pizza a healthier option.
What is the difference between Neapolitan and New York style pizza?
Neapolitan pizza is characterized by its thin, soft crust, simple toppings, and wood-fired cooking method, resulting in a tender and flavorful pizza. New York style pizza features a thin, crispy crust, larger slices, and a more substantial amount of cheese and toppings, with a focus on convenience and affordability.
Can I make pizza at home without a pizza stone?
Yes, you can make pizza at home without a pizza stone by using a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet. Preheat the baking sheet or skillet in the oven before adding the pizza to ensure a crisp crust.
What is the best way to reheat pizza?
The best way to reheat pizza is to use an oven or toaster oven, which will help maintain the crust's crispness and the toppings' texture. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
The world of pizza is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of styles, flavors, and experiences for pizza lovers to explore. From the traditional Neapolitan and iconic New York style to the hearty Chicago deep dish and innovative California style, each type of pizza brings its own unique elements to the table. By celebrating the rich history, cultural influences, and artisanal techniques behind these pizzas, we can better appreciate the artistry and passion that go into creating the best pizzas in the world.
Whether you're a fan of classic flavors or seeking new and inventive combinations, there's a pizza out there for everyone. By understanding the characteristics and nuances of each style, you can embark on your own pizza journey, sampling the delicious offerings from around the globe. As you savor each slice, remember that pizza is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of tradition, creativity, and the joy of sharing good food with others.
In conclusion, the best pizzas in the world are those that bring people together, sparking conversation and creating lasting memories. As you continue to explore and enjoy the diverse world of pizza, may you be inspired to discover new favorites and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind each delicious creation.
