When we think of pizza today, images of golden crusts topped with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a variety of other toppings come to mind. However, the pizza we know today has evolved significantly from its origins. Old World pizza refers to the traditional styles of pizza that originate from the birthplace of pizza—Italy. This style of pizza is more than just food; it’s a connection to history, culture, and the way pizza was made centuries ago.
Old World pizza embodies the rustic, simple, and authentic flavors that made Italian cuisine famous. It focuses on quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and a deep respect for the recipes passed down through generations. In this article, we will explore what Old World pizza is, its origins, the different styles, and how it differs from the more modern versions we often enjoy today.
Origins of Old World Pizza
The roots of Old World pizza can be traced back to the ancient civilizations that inhabited Italy. Before pizza became the dish we know and love, various forms of flatbreads were made using local ingredients. These early forms of pizza were often topped with herbs, cheese, and oil, but the evolution of pizza into the modern version we recognize today happened much later.
The history of pizza can be linked to the rise of the ancient Roman and Greek civilizations. Both cultures enjoyed flatbreads that were baked in open flames, often topped with various ingredients. However, it was not until the 18th century in Naples, Italy, that the modern pizza was born.
In Naples, pizza became a popular street food among the working class. The iconic Margherita pizza, with its simple combination of tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, is often considered one of the first Old World pizzas. This style of pizza was a reflection of the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods that defined Old World pizza.
What Defines Old World Pizza?
Old World pizza is characterized by its commitment to simplicity and authenticity. Unlike some modern versions that are loaded with toppings and cheeses, Old World pizzas focus on a few high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected and prepared. The pizza dough itself is an important part of the process, as it forms the base for the toppings and contributes significantly to the overall flavor.
There are several key elements that define Old World pizza:
The Dough
The dough is the foundation of any great pizza, and Old World pizza dough is typically made with just four ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is allowed to rise slowly, sometimes over the course of several hours or even overnight. This long fermentation process gives the dough a distinct flavor and texture. It is often thinner and crispier than modern pizza dough, with a light, airy crumb inside.
The dough for Old World pizza is usually hand-stretched rather than rolled with a pin. This helps preserve its texture and creates the characteristic bubbles and slight char on the crust when baked.
The Sauce
Old World pizza sauce is simple and flavorful. It is typically made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a few herbs like basil and oregano. Unlike modern pizza sauces, which may include sugar or other sweeteners, Old World pizza sauce is typically less sweet and more tangy, allowing the natural flavor of the tomatoes to shine through.
The sauce is spread lightly over the dough, so the pizza does not become overly saucy. The focus is on balance and harmony of flavors, with the sauce complementing the other ingredients rather than overpowering them.
The Cheese
Cheese plays a vital role in Old World pizza, but it is used sparingly. Fresh mozzarella, or “fior di latte,” is often the cheese of choice for many traditional pizzas. This cheese is soft, creamy, and slightly tangy, and it melts beautifully when baked.
Other cheeses, like pecorino Romano or Parmesan, may also be used to add depth and saltiness to the pizza. However, Old World pizza does not typically feature the heavy layering of cheeses that is common in more modern versions.
The Toppings
Toppings for Old World pizza are usually minimal, focusing on the quality of the ingredients rather than the quantity. A classic Margherita pizza, for example, features only tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The pizza is then drizzled with olive oil before being baked to perfection.
Other popular Old World pizza toppings might include anchovies, olives, and fresh herbs. The idea is to use ingredients that are in season and locally available, emphasizing natural flavors.
The Cooking Method
Old World pizza is traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven. The intense heat from the wood fire gives the pizza its characteristic charred crust and smoky flavor. Cooking in a wood-fired oven also allows the pizza to cook quickly, usually in just a few minutes, preserving the freshness of the ingredients.
The high heat also contributes to the texture of the dough, giving it a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and airy. This is a key feature of Old World pizza, which is often much thinner and lighter than the thicker, doughier crusts found in modern versions.
Types of Old World Pizza
Old World pizza comes in several different styles, each with its own unique characteristics. While the pizza styles of Naples and Rome are the most well-known, there are many regional variations across Italy. Below, we will explore some of the most famous types of Old World pizza.
Neapolitan Pizza (Pizza Napoletana)
Neapolitan pizza is perhaps the most famous Old World pizza style. It originated in Naples and is known for its simple yet delicious ingredients. The pizza is typically made with a thin, soft crust that is slightly crispy around the edges. It is topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, and it is cooked quickly in a wood-fired oven at very high temperatures.
There are strict guidelines for making an authentic Neapolitan pizza, including specific requirements for the dough, sauce, cheese, and cooking method. In fact, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (True Neapolitan Pizza Association) has set rules to preserve the authenticity of Neapolitan pizza.
Roman Pizza (Pizza Romana)
Roman pizza is another popular Old World style, but it differs from Neapolitan pizza in several ways. Roman pizza is typically thinner and crunchier than Neapolitan pizza, and the dough is often stretched to a larger size. It is also more likely to have a variety of toppings, ranging from classic combinations like anchovies and olives to more inventive options like artichokes and prosciutto.
Roman pizza is often baked in a rectangular shape and is sometimes sold by the slice, making it a popular choice for street food in Rome.
Sicilian Pizza (Pizza Siciliana)
Sicilian pizza is a hearty, square-shaped pizza that originated in Sicily. It is characterized by a thicker, doughier crust, which is often more bread-like than the thin crusts of Neapolitan and Roman pizzas. The toppings are typically more abundant, and the pizza may include ingredients like ricotta cheese, sausage, and vegetables.
In Sicily, the pizza is sometimes baked in a pan, giving it a slightly thicker, softer texture. Sicilian pizza is perfect for those who prefer a more filling and satisfying pizza experience.
Focaccia Pizza
Focaccia pizza is another Old World style that is closely related to pizza but is often seen as a simpler, more rustic version. Focaccia is an Italian flatbread that is baked with olive oil, salt, and herbs. When topped with ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and cheese, it can be considered a form of pizza.
Focaccia pizza is often served as an appetizer or snack and is popular in regions like Liguria and Tuscany.
How Old World Pizza Differs from Modern Pizza
While Old World pizza has remained relatively consistent over the centuries, modern pizza has undergone many changes. Some of the main differences between Old World and modern pizza include:
Crust
Old World pizza typically features a thin, crispy crust with a soft and airy interior. Modern pizza, especially in America, often has a thicker, doughier crust, sometimes stuffed with cheese or other fillings.
Toppings
Old World pizza keeps toppings simple, using only a few fresh, high-quality ingredients. In contrast, modern pizza is often loaded with numerous toppings, including processed meats, extra cheese, and sauces.
Cooking Method
Old World pizza is traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven, while modern pizza is usually baked in a gas or electric oven. The wood-fired oven gives the pizza a distinctive smoky flavor and a crispier texture.
Sauce and Cheese
The sauce for Old World pizza is typically made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, with no added sugar. The cheese is usually fresh mozzarella or another simple variety. Modern pizza sauces, on the other hand, may contain sugar or other sweeteners, and the cheese is often heavily processed.
Conclusion
Old World pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that connects us to centuries of Italian tradition. From its simple ingredients to its careful preparation, Old World pizza embodies the essence of Italian cooking. Whether it’s the classic Margherita pizza from Naples or the heartier Sicilian pizza, Old World pizza reminds us that sometimes, less is more. By focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods, Old World pizza offers a taste of history that modern pizza simply can’t replicate.
Related topics:
