If you’re a pizza lover, chances are you’ve heard about Brooklyn-style pizza. This iconic slice is a hallmark of New York City’s rich culinary tapestry. But what sets Brooklyn Style Pizza apart from other pizza styles?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into its history and distinctive features and share some tips on enjoying a piece of Brooklyn at your dining table.
The Origins of Brooklyn-Style Pizza
The story of Brooklyn Style Pizza began in the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their cherished pizza-making traditions to the streets of Brooklyn, New York.
Adapting their original recipes to local tastes and ingredients gave birth to a unique style of pizza that has since become synonymous with the Brooklyn pizza experience.
Defining Features of Brooklyn-Style Pizza
Here are the quintessential traits of what makes a pizza truly Brooklyn-style:
- The Crust: It’s all about a crispy, thin crust that still maintains a soft, chewy texture. It’s sturdy enough to support ample toppings without getting soggy.
- The Toppings: Toppings often include simple yet high-quality ingredients, with a generous layer of melty cheese and classic pepperoni or sausage.
- The Size: Brooklyn-style pizzas are typically larger, often served in 18-inch pies, perfect for folding and eating on the go, a customary New York practice.
- The Sauce: A sweet and tangy tomato sauce, often with a hint of garlic and Italian herbs, provides the perfect base for the toppings.
How to Make Your Own Brooklyn-Style Pizza
Craving a slice of Brooklyn in your local kitchen? Follow these steps:
- Start with high-gluten flour to achieve that classic Brooklyn chewiness in your crust.
- Use a hot oven, preferably with a pizza stone or steel, to mimic the conditions of a pizzeria’s brick oven.
- Spread a thin, even layer of your sweet and tangy tomato sauce.
- Top with full-fat mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings, remembering not to overload the pizza.
- Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
| Pizza Style | Crust | Size | Toppings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Style | Thin and crispy, yet chewy | Large | Simple, high-quality ingredients |
| Neapolitan | Soft, thin, wood-fired | Small | Minimalist, fresh ingredients |
| Chicago Deep Dish | Thick, pie-like | Medium to large | Layered, robust toppings |
Brooklyn-Style Pizza Around the World
While nothing quite compares to grabbing a slice from a Brooklyn pizzeria, the influence of Brooklyn Style Pizza has traveled far and wide.
Many pizzerias around the globe offer their take on this New York classic, paying homage to the thin crust, simple toppings, and foldable slices that New Yorkers adore.
Frequently Asked Questions For What Is Brooklyn Style Pizza
What Defines Brooklyn-Style Pizza?
Brooklyn Style Pizza is known for its thin, crisp crust, lightly topped with cheese and simple tomato sauce, often cut into large, foldable slices.
Is Brooklyn-style pizza crust thin or thick?
The crust of Brooklyn-style pizza is traditionally thin and crunchy, making it distinct from thicker, doughier crusts.
What Toppings Go On A Brooklyn Style Pizza?
Classic toppings include pepperoni, sausage, and veggies, but the focus is on minimal, fresh ingredients.
How Is Brooklyn-Style Pizza Different?
Brooklyn Style Pizza stands out due to its large, foldable slices and a thin crust that’s crispy on the bottom.
Conclusion
Brooklyn Style Pizza is more than just a menu item; it’s a piece of culinary history that embodies the spirit of New York’s diverse and bustling borough.
Whether you’re enjoying it streetside in Brooklyn or around your own kitchen table, this pizza style is about simplicity, quality, and a love for the timeless art of pizza making.