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Grandma Pizza, also known as Nonna Pizza, is a beloved Italian-American classic that pays homage to the old-world flavors of Italy. This rectangular, thin-crust pizza is characterized by its simplicity, showcasing the quality of its ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of Grandma Pizza, provide you with a step-by-step recipe, share valuable tips for achieving the perfect slice, and even break down the calorie information for those mindful of their intake.
A Slice of History
The roots of Grandma Pizza trace back to Italian immigrants who settled in New York City in the early 20th century. These resourceful home cooks adapted traditional Italian recipes to the ingredients available in their new homeland.
The result was a delightful fusion of old-world flavors and American convenience. Today, Grandma Pizza stands as a testament to this culinary heritage.
Grandma Style Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 2-3 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Making the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix the ingredients until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
Assembling the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Grease a rectangular baking pan or pizza stone with olive oil.
- Stretch and press the dough into the pan, covering the bottom evenly. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Spread the minced garlic evenly over the dough.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves on top, and drizzle with more olive oil.
Tips for the Perfect Grandma Pizza
- Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the topping. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes work well.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings. Keep it simple and let the ingredients shine.
- For an extra touch of authenticity, use fresh mozzarella cheese instead of shredded.
- Experiment with variations like adding roasted red peppers, olives, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of a Grandma Pizza slice can vary depending on the thickness of the crust and the amount of cheese used. On average, a standard 1/8th slice of a 12-inch Grandma Pizza may contain approximately 150-200 calories. Keep in mind that the calorie count can change based on the specific ingredients and portion size.
Grandma Pizza is a delightful celebration of Italian-American culinary tradition, a testament to the power of simplicity and quality ingredients. Whether you enjoy it on a cozy family night or as a special treat, Grandma Pizza will always have a special place at the table.
So, the next time you crave a slice of comfort, consider making this classic pizza and savor the flavors that have stood the test of time. Buon appetito!
