Does Basil Belong On Margherita Pizza? The Truth Revealed!

When it comes to classic Italian pizzas, the Margherita pizza holds a special place in the hearts of pizza lovers worldwide. With its simple yet flavorful combination of fresh mozzarella cheese, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic basil, the Margherita pizza is a true culinary masterpiece. But one question that often arises is: does basil go on Margherita pizza? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and preparation of the Margherita pizza, exploring the role of basil in this iconic dish.

A Brief History of the Margherita Pizza:

The Margherita pizza has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It is said that the pizza was first created in Naples, Italy, in 1889 by Raffaele Esposito, a renowned pizza maker. Esposito is believed to have crafted this pizza in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, the wife of King Umberto I of Italy. The pizza’s colors—red, white, and green—are said to represent the colors of the Italian flag, making it a symbol of national pride.

Essential Ingredients of a Margherita Pizza:

The Margherita pizza is characterized by its simplicity and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The essential ingredients include:

• Dough: The base of the pizza is made with a simple dough consisting of flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is kneaded and left to rise, resulting in a light and airy crust.

• Tomatoes: Traditionally, San Marzano tomatoes are used for Margherita pizza. These tomatoes are known for their sweet and tangy flavor, which adds a vibrant red color to the pizza.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella cheese is the star of the show on a Margherita pizza. Its milky, creamy texture and delicate flavor perfectly complement the other ingredients.

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves are the final touch that brings the Margherita pizza to life. Their aromatic and slightly peppery flavor adds a refreshing touch to the pizza.

The Role of Basil in a Margherita Pizza:

Basil is an essential ingredient in a Margherita pizza, contributing to its distinctive flavor and aroma. The fresh, herbaceous notes of basil complement the sweet tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Basil also adds a visual appeal to the pizza, with its vibrant green leaves contrasting beautifully with the red tomatoes and white cheese.

How to Prepare a Margherita Pizza:

1. Make the Dough: Combine flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil in a large bowl. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape the Dough: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach, typically around 500°F (260°C). Divide the dough into individual balls and roll them out into thin, round shapes.

3. Add the Tomatoes: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Top with Mozzarella Cheese: Place slices or shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato sauce.

5. Add Basil: Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces and sprinkle them over the cheese.

6. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations of the Margherita Pizza:

While the classic Margherita pizza is a cherished tradition, there are several variations that have emerged over time. Some popular variations include:

• Margherita Extra: This variation adds additional toppings such as sliced tomatoes, roasted peppers, or mushrooms.

• Margherita Bufala: This variation uses buffalo mozzarella cheese instead of regular mozzarella, resulting in a richer and creamier flavor.

• Margherita Con Prosciutto: This variation adds slices of prosciutto ham to the pizza, creating a salty and savory flavor combination.

• Margherita Bianca: This variation omits the tomatoes, resulting in a white pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, basil, and sometimes other ingredients such as garlic or artichokes.

Summary:

The Margherita pizza is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. With its simple yet flavorful combination of fresh ingredients, the Margherita pizza has captured the hearts of pizza lovers worldwide. Basil plays a crucial role in this dish, adding a refreshing and aromatic touch that elevates the pizza to a culinary masterpiece. Whether you prefer the classic Margherita pizza or one of its many variations, one thing is for sure: basil is an essential ingredient that makes this pizza truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why is basil used on Margherita pizza?

Basil is used on Margherita pizza because its aromatic and slightly peppery flavor complements the sweet tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

2. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil on Margherita pizza?

It is not recommended to use dried basil on Margherita pizza as it lacks the same intensity of flavor and aroma as fresh basil. Fresh basil leaves add a vibrant and refreshing touch to the pizza that cannot be replicated with dried basil.

3. What other herbs can I use instead of basil on Margherita pizza?

While basil is the traditional herb used on Margherita pizza, you can experiment with other herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. However, these herbs have distinct flavors that may alter the classic taste of the Margherita pizza.

4. Can I add other toppings to a Margherita pizza?

While the classic Margherita pizza is characterized by its simplicity, you can add additional toppings such as sliced tomatoes, roasted peppers, mushrooms, or prosciutto ham to create variations of the pizza.

5. What type of cheese is best for Margherita pizza?

Fresh mozzarella cheese is the traditional cheese used for Margherita pizza. Its milky, creamy texture and delicate flavor perfectly complement the other ingredients. However, you can also use buffalo mozzarella cheese for a richer and creamier flavor.