Milano pizza is a delicious style of Italian pizza with a thin, crispy crust and rich, flavorful toppings. It originates from Milan, a city in northern Italy known for its refined cuisine. Unlike the classic Neapolitan pizza, which has a soft and chewy crust, Milano pizza has a crunchier base with a balanced mix of ingredients.
The Origin of Milano Pizza
Milan is a city famous for its fashion, art, and cuisine. While it is not as famous for pizza as Naples, Milan has developed its own unique pizza style. The pizza here is influenced by northern Italian flavors, using high-quality ingredients and a delicate cooking process.
Unlike the wood-fired ovens used in Naples, Milano pizza is often baked in electric or gas ovens. This results in a more evenly cooked crust with a crispier texture.
Characteristics of Milano Pizza
Milano pizza has distinct features that set it apart from other types of pizza. These include:
Thin and Crispy Crust
Milano pizza has a thinner crust compared to Neapolitan pizza. It is baked at a slightly lower temperature, making it crispier rather than chewy. The dough is usually made with finely milled flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt.
High-Quality Ingredients
Milanese cuisine emphasizes fresh, premium ingredients. Milano pizza often features fresh mozzarella, flavorful tomato sauce, and gourmet toppings such as prosciutto, truffle oil, or arugula.
Balanced Flavors
This pizza style is not overloaded with toppings. Instead, each ingredient is carefully selected to create a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of a light crust and fresh toppings makes Milano pizza less heavy than other pizzas.
Baking Technique
Unlike traditional wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas that cook in under two minutes, Milano pizza is often baked in an electric oven at a moderate temperature. This allows the crust to become crispier while keeping the toppings fresh and flavorful.
Traditional Milano Pizza Toppings
Milano pizza toppings are known for their elegance and simplicity. Some of the most popular toppings include:
Tomato Sauce: A light, smooth tomato sauce made with San Marzano or fresh Italian tomatoes.
Mozzarella Cheese: Often fresh mozzarella or a blend of different Italian cheeses.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced Italian ham that adds a salty, savory taste.
Arugula: A slightly peppery green that balances the richness of the cheese.
Truffle Oil: A luxurious finishing touch that enhances the pizza’s aroma.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: Aged cheese that adds depth to the flavor.
Mushrooms: Often wild mushrooms or porcini for a rich, earthy taste.
Olives: Black or green olives for a Mediterranean touch.
Differences Between Milano Pizza and Other Italian Pizzas
Milano Pizza vs. Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza has a soft, chewy crust, while Milano pizza has a thin and crispy crust.
Neapolitan pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at very high heat, while Milano pizza is often baked in an electric or gas oven.
Milano pizza uses a moderate amount of toppings, whereas Neapolitan pizza is often more sauce-heavy.
Milano Pizza vs. Roman Pizza
Roman pizza (pizza Romana) is also thin and crispy, but it is often rolled even thinner than Milano pizza.
Milano pizza typically features more gourmet toppings, whereas Roman pizza focuses on classic flavors like anchovies, garlic, and olive oil.
Milano Pizza vs. Sicilian Pizza
Sicilian pizza has a thick, fluffy crust, while Milano pizza remains thin and crisp.
Sicilian pizza is often baked in a rectangular shape, while Milano pizza is traditionally round.
Sicilian pizza is topped with a heavy layer of cheese and sauce, while Milano pizza keeps its toppings light and refined.
How to Make Milano Pizza at Home
Making Milano pizza at home is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s an easy recipe to try.
For the Dough
2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon dry yeast
¾ cup (180ml) warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings
½ cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
4-5 slices of prosciutto
A handful of arugula
1 tablespoon truffle oil (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
In another bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour and mix until it forms a dough.
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
Cover and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
Shape the Dough
Roll out the dough into a thin, round shape.
Place it on a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Add the Toppings
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
Add fresh mozzarella slices.
Sprinkle dried oregano for extra flavor.
Bake the Pizza
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.
Add Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, top with prosciutto and fresh arugula.
Drizzle with truffle oil for a rich flavor.
Sprinkle grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the pizza and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Milano pizza is a refined and elegant take on Italian pizza. With its thin, crispy crust and gourmet toppings, it offers a perfect balance of flavors. Unlike Neapolitan pizza, it is lighter and crispier, making it a great choice for those who prefer a delicate yet flavorful pizza experience.
If you love pizza and want to try something different, Milano pizza is a great option. Whether you make it at home or enjoy it in a restaurant, this northern Italian delight is sure to impress!
