New York-style pizza is a culinary staple of the Big Apple, renowned for its thin, crisp crust which is strong enough to support an array of toppings yet pliable enough to fold in half. The art of making this pizza lies in the balance of flavors between the sweet tomato sauce and the creamy mozzarella, all coming together on a crust with just the right amount of char from a blisteringly hot oven. Its simplicity is its hallmark; a few quality ingredients and expert technique yield a slice that’s enjoyed by millions, whether grabbed on-the-go from a bustling street corner or savored at a family-run pizzeria. There’s a sense of romance to this urban favorite, a testament to New York’s rich cultural tapestry and its enduring love affair with pizza.
Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes dough rising)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups bread flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in water; let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
- Combine yeast mixture with flour; add olive oil.
- Knead dough for 10 minutes; let it rise for 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Stretch dough into a 16-inch round.
- Spread sauce, then cheese on the crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes until crust is golden.
- Garnish with basil before serving.
Biting into a slice of New York-style pizza is an experience, a taste of the city’s history in every bite. From the first pizzeria in America opened in New York City in 1905 to the countless slices sold on its streets today, this pizza has become synonymous with the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a slice of New York on a plate, an edible icon that’s as much a part of the city as yellow cabs and Broadway shows.