What To Know
- Simmer the sauce for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, to allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a hint of heat, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, to allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
Neapolitan pizza, with its crispy crust and flavorful toppings, is a culinary masterpiece. The key to its tantalizing taste lies in the perfect tomato sauce. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you create the best tomato sauce for your Neapolitan pizza.
Selecting the Right Tomatoes
The foundation of any great tomato sauce is the tomatoes themselves. For Neapolitan pizza, San Marzano tomatoes are the preferred choice. These Italian tomatoes are known for their low acidity, rich flavor, and meaty texture. If fresh San Marzano tomatoes are unavailable, high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes can be used as a suitable substitute.
Preparing the Tomatoes
Before adding the tomatoes to the sauce, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Start by removing the stems and cutting the tomatoes into quarters. Use a sharp knife to avoid crushing or bruising the tomatoes, as this can release unwanted bitterness.
Choosing the Base Ingredients
In addition to tomatoes, the base ingredients for a Neapolitan tomato sauce include:
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma. Mince them finely to prevent overwhelming the sauce.
- Onion: A small white or yellow onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for its rich flavor and high smoke point.
Cooking the Sauce
1. Sauté the garlic and onion: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes: Add the prepared tomatoes to the saucepan and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer and reduce: Simmer the sauce for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, to allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Season to taste: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste. Avoid over-seasoning, as the flavors will intensify as the sauce cooks.
Adding Herbs and Spices
Traditional Neapolitan tomato sauce typically includes a few key herbs and spices:
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves, added at the very end of cooking, provide a bright and aromatic touch.
- Oregano: Dried oregano adds a subtle earthy flavor to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a hint of heat, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauce.
Achieving the Right Consistency
The perfect Neapolitan tomato sauce should have a smooth and velvety consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or tomato juice to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a longer period to reduce it further.
Key Points: Elevate Your Neapolitan Pizza Experience
Creating the perfect tomato sauce for Neapolitan pizza is an art form that takes time and patience. By following these tips and using high-quality ingredients, you can elevate your pizza-making skills and impress your friends and family with a truly exceptional culinary experience.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What type of tomatoes are best for Neapolitan pizza sauce?
A: San Marzano tomatoes or high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes are the preferred choice for their low acidity, rich flavor, and meaty texture.
Q: How long should I simmer the tomato sauce?
A: Simmer the sauce for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, to allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
A: Yes, fresh herbs can be used, but use them sparingly as they tend to have a more intense flavor than dried herbs.
