Pizza is a beloved dish around the world, and its crust is often the defining feature that differentiates one pizza from another. Whether it’s thin and crispy, thick and doughy, or somewhere in between, the crust can elevate a pizza’s flavor and texture. Among the many types of pizza crusts, the hand-tossed pizza crust stands out for its unique preparation method and the soft, chewy texture it imparts to the pizza.
But what exactly is a hand-tossed pizza crust? How is it made, and how does it differ from other pizza crust types? In this article, we will explore the origins of hand-tossed pizza crust, how it’s prepared, and the characteristics that make it so popular. We will also compare hand-tossed crust to other popular types of pizza crust, like thin crust and deep dish, and offer some tips for making the perfect hand-tossed pizza at home.
Origins of Hand-Tossed Pizza Crust
The history of pizza can be traced back to Italy, where it originated in Naples as a simple, flatbread-like dish topped with various ingredients. The idea of tossing dough in the air likely comes from the traditional pizza-making techniques developed in the early 19th century.
The tossing of pizza dough by hand is a practice that goes back several generations. While many modern pizza makers use machines to roll out their dough, tossing it by hand remains a revered skill in pizza-making. The act of tossing dough in the air was originally a way to stretch it evenly without the use of a rolling pin, and it also allowed the dough to expand in a circular shape. This method became particularly popular in the United States in the 20th century, where it was adopted by pizzerias as a way to create pizzas with a characteristic texture and look.
Hand-tossed crust has become a staple of many pizza parlors, and it is often associated with a traditional, artisanal approach to pizza-making. It’s also frequently used in chain restaurants and is considered one of the more common pizza styles available today.
What is Hand-Tossed Pizza Crust?
A hand-tossed pizza crust refers to dough that is stretched and shaped by hand rather than using a rolling pin or machine. The dough is usually made from a combination of flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt. After the dough is mixed, it is allowed to rise, and then it is shaped by tossing it in the air, allowing gravity to help stretch the dough evenly into a circular shape.
The tossing technique imparts several unique characteristics to the crust. Because the dough is stretched by hand, it typically retains more air bubbles, which leads to a crust that is both chewy and light. The outer edges, where the dough has been stretched the most, often become crisp and golden, while the inner portion of the crust remains soft and airy.
The hand-tossing technique also allows the dough to develop more texture, with some areas being thinner and others being slightly thicker. This irregular texture is part of what makes hand-tossed crust so appealing. The process of tossing and stretching the dough also makes it easier to form a round shape, although some pizzas may end up with slightly irregular edges.
Characteristics of Hand-Tossed Pizza Crust
Hand-tossed pizza crust has a few distinguishing characteristics that set it apart from other types of pizza crusts. Here are some of the most notable features:
1. Chewy Texture
One of the most notable features of hand-tossed pizza crust is its chewy texture. The air bubbles created during the tossing process contribute to the light, elastic nature of the crust. This makes the crust both soft and chewy, providing a satisfying contrast to the crispiness of the outer edges.
2. Crispy Edges
While the interior of the hand-tossed crust remains soft and chewy, the edges are often crispy and golden. This is because the outer edges of the dough are stretched the most during the tossing process, creating a thin layer that crisps up as it bakes in the oven.
3. Even Thickness
Hand-tossing the dough allows for a more even distribution of dough, as the pizza maker uses gravity to stretch it out into a round shape. The result is a pizza crust that is generally uniform in thickness, with slight variations around the edges.
4. Rustic Appearance
Hand-tossed pizzas often have a rustic, artisanal look. The dough may not be perfectly round, and the edges may be slightly uneven, giving it a homemade, traditional feel. This imperfection is often seen as a sign of authenticity and skill in pizza-making.
5. Light and Airy
The tossing process allows air to be trapped within the dough, which helps make the crust light and airy. This makes hand-tossed pizza crust more digestible compared to denser crusts, such as deep-dish or pan pizza.
6. Soft Underneath
While the edges of the hand-tossed crust are crispy, the interior remains soft. This creates a contrast of textures, with a firm crunch on the outside and a tender, pliable interior that complements the toppings.
How is Hand-Tossed Pizza Crust Made?
The process of making hand-tossed pizza crust involves several key steps. While the technique can be mastered with practice, it requires a bit of skill and patience. Below is a basic guide on how hand-tossed pizza crust is typically made.
1. Prepare the Dough
The first step in making hand-tossed pizza is to prepare the dough. The ingredients for a basic pizza dough include:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
To make the dough, start by mixing the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Then, add the warm water and olive oil to the mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together, and then knead it on a floured surface for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once the dough is ready, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any excess air. Divide the dough into smaller portions if you’re making multiple pizzas. Roll the dough into a ball, and let it rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
To shape the dough, start by flattening it gently with your hands into a small disc. Then, use the palm of your hands to stretch it out further, moving from the center of the dough outwards. The dough should naturally start to expand. Once the dough reaches a size that fits your pizza pan or stone, use your fingers to gently stretch the edges to form a round shape.
3. Toss the Dough
The next step is to toss the dough. Hold the dough by the edges and gently throw it up into the air, catching it with your hands. This process should be done gently, and the dough should be tossed in such a way that gravity helps to stretch it evenly. As you toss the dough, rotate it so that it expands in all directions.
This is the step where the dough gains its distinctive characteristics. The tossing action helps to create air pockets in the dough, which contributes to the chewy and airy texture of the crust. With practice, you’ll be able to toss the dough more smoothly and evenly.
4. Add Toppings
Once the dough is shaped, it’s time to add your toppings. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, followed by cheese and your favorite toppings. Be careful not to overload the pizza, as too many toppings can cause the crust to become soggy.
5. Bake the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Hand-Tossed Pizza vs. Other Types of Pizza Crust
While hand-tossed pizza crust is a popular choice, it is not the only type of pizza crust available. Let’s take a look at how hand-tossed pizza compares to other common types of pizza crust.
1. Thin Crust
Thin-crust pizza is made by rolling out the dough very thinly, resulting in a crisp, crunchy texture. Unlike hand-tossed pizza, which has a soft, chewy interior, thin-crust pizza is typically crisp all the way through. Thin-crust pizza is often preferred by those who enjoy a more delicate, crisp bite.
2. Thick Crust
Thick crust, as the name suggests, is made with more dough, resulting in a dense and doughy crust. This type of crust has a soft, sometimes almost bread-like texture. While thick-crust pizzas are more filling, they can lack the lightness and chewiness that hand-tossed crust provides.
3. Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is a style of pizza that originated in Chicago and features a thick, buttery crust that is more like a pie than a traditional pizza. The crust is baked in a deep pan, allowing the cheese and toppings to be layered inside. Deep-dish crust is often denser and heavier than hand-tossed crust.
4. Stuffed Crust
Stuffed crust pizza is a type of pizza where the outer edge of the crust is stuffed with cheese or other fillings. This crust is typically thicker and heavier than hand-tossed crust, and it offers a more indulgent experience with its cheesy, flavorful edge.
Conclusion
Hand-tossed pizza crust is one of the most popular and beloved styles of pizza crust, known for its light, chewy texture and crispy edges. The technique of tossing the dough by hand allows for a crust that is soft, airy, and unevenly textured, which gives it its distinctive rustic appearance. Whether you’re enjoying a slice at a pizzeria or making it at home, hand-tossed pizza crust remains a timeless favorite for pizza lovers around the world. By understanding how it is made and what makes it unique, you can appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every hand-tossed pizza.
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