New York Style Pizza Vs Hand Tossed: Which One Is The Better Fit?
What To Know
- The classic combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano is often considered the epitome of New York pizza.
- The lower heat allows the crust to rise and the toppings to cook evenly, resulting in a softer and fluffier pizza.
- However, if you prefer a thicker, airier crust with a generous spread of toppings, hand tossed pizza is the way to go.
Pizza, a delectable culinary creation, has captivated taste buds worldwide. Among the numerous styles of pizza, two prominent contenders stand out: New York style pizza and hand tossed. Each style boasts distinct characteristics that set it apart, inspiring debates and preferences among pizza enthusiasts. In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the captivating world of New York style pizza and hand tossed, exploring their unique attributes and comparing them side-by-side.
Crust: The Foundation of Flavor
The crust serves as the cornerstone of any pizza, providing the base for the toppings and determining the overall texture.
New York Style Pizza Crust: Thin, crispy, and foldable, the New York style pizza crust is legendary. It’s made with high-gluten flour, which gives it a characteristic chewiness. The crust is typically stretched by hand, resulting in an uneven shape and a slightly charred exterior.
Hand Tossed Crust: Thicker and airier than its New York counterpart, hand tossed crust is made with a lower-gluten flour. It’s tossed and stretched by hand, creating a more evenly shaped crust with a soft, pillowy interior.
Toppings: A Symphony of Flavors
Toppings play a crucial role in enhancing the pizza experience, adding a vibrant array of flavors and textures.
New York Style Pizza Toppings: New York style pizzas are known for their minimalist approach when it comes to toppings. The classic combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano is often considered the epitome of New York pizza.
Hand Tossed Toppings: Hand tossed pizzas offer a more generous spread of toppings. From classic combinations like pepperoni and sausage to gourmet options such as grilled chicken and roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless.
Sauce: The Liquid Gold
The sauce, the flavorful foundation of any pizza, adds depth and tanginess to the dish.
New York Style Pizza Sauce: New York style pizza sauce is typically made with crushed tomatoes, resulting in a thick and slightly sweet sauce. It’s often seasoned with oregano, basil, and garlic.
Hand Tossed Sauce: Hand tossed pizza sauce is often made with tomato puree or diced tomatoes, creating a smoother and tangier sauce. It may incorporate a wider range of herbs and spices, including thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes.
Cheese: The Melting Masterpiece
Cheese, the crowning glory of any pizza, provides a rich and gooey element that elevates the overall flavor profile.
New York Style Pizza Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the undisputed king of New York style pizzas. It melts perfectly, creating a stringy and flavorful layer that complements the crispy crust.
Hand Tossed Cheese: Hand tossed pizzas offer a wider selection of cheeses, including mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan. The combination of multiple cheeses creates a more complex and decadent flavor experience.
Cooking Method: The Art of Heat
The cooking method plays a crucial role in determining the texture and flavor of the pizza.
New York Style Pizza Cooking Method: New York style pizzas are cooked in extremely hot ovens, typically ranging from 800 to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. The high heat creates a crispy crust and a bubbly, charred exterior.
Hand Tossed Cooking Method: Hand tossed pizzas are cooked at a lower temperature, usually around 500 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower heat allows the crust to rise and the toppings to cook evenly, resulting in a softer and fluffier pizza.
Size and Shape: A Matter of Preference
New York Style Pizza Size and Shape: New York style pizzas are typically large, ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter. They are often cut into triangular slices, making them easy to share.
Hand Tossed Pizza Size and Shape: Hand tossed pizzas come in a variety of sizes, from personal pizzas to large party-sized pizzas. They may be round, square, or even oval in shape.
Which Style Reigns Supreme?
The choice between New York style pizza and hand tossed pizza ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you crave a thin, crispy crust with a minimalist approach to toppings, New York style pizza is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a thicker, airier crust with a generous spread of toppings, hand tossed pizza is the way to go. Both styles offer their own unique culinary experience, ensuring that every pizza lover can find their slice of heaven.
FAQ
Q: Which style of pizza is healthier?
A: Both New York style pizza and hand tossed pizza can be made with healthy ingredients, such as whole-wheat crust and low-fat cheese. However, hand tossed pizza typically has a thicker crust, which may contain more calories and carbohydrates.
Q: Which style of pizza is more popular?
A: New York style pizza is often considered the more popular style, especially in the United States. However, hand tossed pizza is also widely enjoyed and has its own loyal following.
Q: Can I make New York style pizza at home?
A: Yes, it’s possible to make New York style pizza at home. However, achieving the authentic crispy crust requires a very hot oven, which may not be available in all home kitchens.