Pizza, in its many variations, is a beloved dish enjoyed by millions of people across the globe. Among the different types of pizza, the “hand-tossed” style has long been a favorite, known for its thick and chewy crust, slightly crispy exterior, and airy texture. Recently, many pizza chains have introduced a “new hand-tossed” pizza, claiming it to be a fresh take on the traditional recipe. In this article, we will explore what new hand-tossed pizza is, how it differs from classic hand-tossed pizza, its key features, and how it fits into modern pizza culture. We will also dive into the making of this pizza, its benefits, and the reasons behind its rising popularity.
Understanding Hand-Tossed Pizza
Before discussing the “new” hand-tossed pizza, it’s essential to understand the basics of the traditional hand-tossed style. The hand-tossed pizza is made by stretching the dough by hand, creating a round, flat base. The dough is typically kneaded, rested, and then tossed in the air to stretch it into the desired size. This method differs from other pizza-making techniques such as rolling the dough with a pin or using a press. The hand-tossing technique creates an airier, lighter dough with slightly uneven thickness, often resulting in a crust that is both chewy and crispy.
Hand-tossed pizza dough is usually made from simple ingredients: flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is often allowed to rise slowly, which gives it its distinctive texture. Once stretched and shaped, the dough is topped with sauce, cheese, and various toppings before being baked in a pizza oven.
Traditional Hand-Tossed vs. Other Types of Crust
Hand-tossed pizza is often compared with other popular crust types, including thin-crust pizza, thick-crust pizza, and deep-dish pizza. While thin crust is crispy and light, it lacks the chewiness of hand-tossed pizza. On the other hand, thick-crust and deep-dish pizzas are denser, with a more substantial, bread-like texture. Hand-tossed pizza provides a balance between the two, offering both a chewy, airy interior and a crispy, slightly crunchy exterior.
The Rise of “New Hand-Tossed” Pizza
In recent years, many major pizza chains, such as Domino’s, Papa John’s, and Pizza Hut, have introduced a variation of hand-tossed pizza known as “new hand-tossed.” These chains often claim that the new hand-tossed pizza has a “better” or “upgraded” dough compared to the traditional version, appealing to both longtime fans of hand-tossed pizza and new customers.
But what exactly makes the “new hand-tossed” pizza different from the original? The difference lies mainly in the ingredients, the preparation process, and the texture of the dough. While the hand-tossing technique remains the same, the updated recipes aim to create a more flavorful, crispier, or fluffier crust that offers an enhanced eating experience.
Key Features of New Hand-Tossed Pizza
While the new hand-tossed pizza varies by brand and location, there are some general features that most versions share. These include improvements in dough formulation, texture, and overall taste. Let’s take a closer look at these characteristics.
1. Enhanced Dough Recipe
One of the most significant differences in new hand-tossed pizza is the dough. Many pizza chains have refined their recipes to make the dough more flavorful and to improve its texture. New hand-tossed dough is often made with higher-quality flour, additional oils, and sometimes even a hint of sweetness to improve the flavor. Some chains also add a bit of yeast to allow the dough to rise more effectively, giving it a fluffier and lighter texture.
Additionally, newer recipes may use a slow-rise fermentation method, where the dough is allowed to rest for a longer period before being stretched and baked. This extended resting time allows for better flavor development and a more consistent texture throughout the pizza.
2. Crispier Crust
Another defining feature of new hand-tossed pizza is its crispier crust. While traditional hand-tossed pizza tends to have a chewy, soft center, the new hand-tossed versions are designed to be crisper, especially around the edges. This may be achieved by adjusting the baking time or temperature, using oil on the crust, or adding a slightly higher level of fat in the dough recipe.
The result is a pizza with a crust that is both soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, offering a more satisfying bite. The increased crispiness can be especially appealing for those who prefer a crust with more texture and less chewiness.
3. Fluffier Texture
The “new” hand-tossed pizza also tends to have a fluffier texture compared to the classic hand-tossed style. While classic hand-tossed pizza can sometimes be a bit dense, the newer version aims for a lighter, airier dough. This is achieved by altering the hydration levels in the dough, using more water to create a softer, more elastic texture. The result is a pizza that has a lighter feel while still offering a satisfying chew.
4. Better Flavor Balance
The new hand-tossed pizza also focuses on improving the flavor profile of the crust itself. Traditional hand-tossed pizza dough often has a mild flavor, as it primarily consists of flour, yeast, and water. However, newer dough recipes often include additional ingredients such as olive oil, sugar, or even herbs like garlic or basil to enhance the flavor of the crust. This makes the crust itself a more flavorful component of the pizza, complementing the savory toppings and sauce.
5. More Consistent Quality
The new hand-tossed pizzas are also marketed as having more consistent quality. Traditional hand-tossed pizza dough can vary depending on factors like the skill of the pizza maker or environmental conditions, which can affect the texture and taste. The new hand-tossed dough recipes are often formulated to provide a more uniform outcome, ensuring that customers get the same quality pizza each time they order.
How New Hand-Tossed Pizza Fits into Modern Pizza Culture
New hand-tossed pizza is a response to the changing tastes and demands of pizza consumers. While traditional hand-tossed pizza remains a classic favorite, customers now seek variety and more tailored experiences. The introduction of new hand-tossed pizza is part of a broader trend in the pizza industry to innovate and cater to contemporary preferences.
Appeal to Health-Conscious Consumers
Despite being a fast food item, pizza has also been embraced by health-conscious consumers, who seek healthier options without sacrificing flavor. The new hand-tossed pizza offers an opportunity to make healthier choices by adjusting toppings and focusing on higher-quality ingredients. For example, opting for lighter cheese, more vegetables, or leaner meats can make the pizza more nutritious. Additionally, the fluffier, crispier crust is often perceived as a lighter option compared to denser crusts, making it more appealing to people watching their calorie intake.
Customization and Variety
The trend of customization is another factor contributing to the popularity of new hand-tossed pizza. Consumers today enjoy being able to tailor their pizza to their tastes. New hand-tossed pizza offers a fresh base for experimenting with different toppings, sauces, and seasonings, allowing for a personalized experience. Many pizza chains now offer a range of crust options, including new hand-tossed pizza, alongside traditional hand-tossed, thin-crust, and gluten-free varieties.
A Response to Consumer Feedback
The rise of new hand-tossed pizza also reflects the growing importance of consumer feedback in shaping food products. As pizza chains receive input from their customers, they make adjustments to improve the overall quality and satisfaction of their pizzas. New hand-tossed pizza is a direct response to this feedback, aiming to provide a crust that is both nostalgic and modern—chewy yet crispy, flavorful yet light.
How to Make New Hand-Tossed Pizza at Home
If you’re interested in recreating the new hand-tossed pizza experience at home, it’s entirely possible. The process involves making a dough that is slightly fluffier and crispier than the traditional hand-tossed version. Here’s a simple guide to making new hand-tossed pizza at home:
Ingredients for Dough
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Method
Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and yeast mixture to the flour and stir until the dough starts to form. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and stretch it by hand, tossing it lightly to form a round shape. Be sure not to overwork the dough, as you want to maintain its airy texture.
Add Toppings: Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings to the dough. Bake at 475°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Conclusion
New hand-tossed pizza offers a modern twist on a classic favorite. By refining the dough recipe and enhancing its texture, flavor, and consistency, pizza chains have created a pizza that appeals to both traditionalists and new consumers. With its lighter, crispier crust and improved flavor, new hand-tossed pizza has become a popular option for those seeking a more balanced pizza experience. Whether you enjoy it from your favorite pizza chain or decide to make it at home, new hand-tossed pizza provides a satisfying and versatile option for pizza lovers everywhere.
Related Topics
- Is Cornmeal Pizza Crust Healthy?
- Is Plant-Based Pizza Healthy?
- How Much is a Pepperoni Pizza from Papa John’s?
