What Kind of Pizza Do They Eat in Rome?
When it comes to pizza, Italy is often the first country that comes to mind. With its rich culinary history, Italy is known for its different variations of pizza.
In particular, the city of Naples is famous for its Neapolitan-style pizza. However, if you find yourself in Rome, you’ll discover that they have their own unique style of pizza.
Roman-Style Pizza: Thin and Crispy
In Rome, pizza is typically thin and crispy, with a distinctively light texture. Unlike the thick crusts found in other Italian regions or deep-dish pizzas popular in America, Roman-style pizza stands out for its simplicity and delicate flavors.
The dough used for Roman-style pizza is made with only a few basic ingredients: flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is left to rise for a longer period compared to other styles of pizza.
This slow fermentation process gives the crust its signature lightness and crispiness.
Toppings: Less Is More
Unlike Neapolitan-style pizza that tends to have a variety of toppings piled high on the crust, Roman-style pizza follows the principle of “less is more.” It focuses on quality ingredients rather than an abundance of toppings.
One classic Roman-style pizza is the Margherita. It features simple but delicious toppings: tomato sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes (a type of plum tomato), fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.
The Margherita perfectly showcases the harmony between minimalism and exceptional flavors.
Other Popular Variations
While the Margherita remains a staple in Roman pizzerias, there are other popular variations to explore. One such variation is the Marinara, which consists of tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil.
Despite its simplicity, the Marinara delivers a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Another notable Roman-style pizza is the Quattro Formaggi (Four Cheese). As the name suggests, it features a combination of four different cheeses – typically mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and Parmesan.
The result is a cheesy delight that will satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings.
Where to Find Roman-Style Pizza in Rome
To experience authentic Roman-style pizza in Rome, there are several renowned pizzerias you should visit. One such place is Pizzarium Bonci, located near the Vatican City.
It offers a wide selection of mouthwatering pizzas with unique toppings.
For those looking for a more traditional ambiance, Dar Poeta in Trastevere is an excellent choice. Its rustic setting combined with their exceptional pizza makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
In Conclusion
While Naples may be considered the birthplace of pizza, Rome has its own distinctive style that should not be overlooked. The thin and crispy Roman-style pizza with its minimalist approach to toppings allows the flavors to shine through.
So next time you’re in Rome, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this delicious culinary delight!