Fire pizza margherita

The Margherita pizza is a classic of Italian cuisine combining simplicity and flavor with fresh ingredients like tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil.

About this subject

The Margherita pizza is one of the most emblematic recipes from Italy, originating in Naples in the late 19th century. Legend has it that pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created this combination in 1889 to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy, using ingredients representing the colors of the Italian flag: red tomato, white mozzarella, and green basil. The traditional Neapolitan recipe is protected by the European Union as a Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG), meaning that to be called a true Neapolitan pizza it must follow strict preparation rules.

Authentic ingredients include San Marzano tomato sauce, grown on the volcanic plains of Mount Vesuvius, buffalo mozzarella from Campania or fior di latte, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt. The dough is made with type 00 flour, natural or brewer's yeast, water, and salt, stretched by hand into a round shape with raised edges. Traditional cooking occurs in a wood-fired oven heated to about 485°C for only 60 to 90 seconds, resulting in a soft base with slightly charred spots.

Culturally, the Margherita pizza is a symbol of Italian cuisine and has spread worldwide as a democratic and versatile dish. In Brazil, it's one of the most ordered pizzas, often adapted with common mozzarella and tomato sauce, but still widely consumed in traditional pizzerias. The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana exists to certify pizzerias that follow the original recipe. The popularity of Margherita has inspired variations like adding arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses, but the classic version remains the favorite for purists.

Interestingly, the Margherita pizza is considered a base for many other combinations, and its simplicity allows each ingredient's flavor to shine. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for the final result, and many chefs argue that a good Margherita needs nothing beyond the classic trio. In 2022, Neapolitan pizza was declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, solidifying its global cultural importance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Margherita pizza?

The Margherita pizza was created in Naples in 1889 by pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy. The combination of tomato, mozzarella and basil represents the colors of the Italian flag.

What are the traditional ingredients of an authentic Margherita?

The original recipe uses San Marzano tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella from Campania or fior di latte, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. The dough must be made with type 00 flour and natural yeast.

Why is Margherita pizza so popular worldwide?

Its simplicity and balanced flavors have won over global palates. Additionally, Neapolitan pizza was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2022, reinforcing its cultural value.