Philadelphia, PA—What is New York pizza? It is a specialty style of pizza with a rich, complex, and crispy crust. The crust is made of crispy dough and is typically folded in half. Unlike a traditional slice, a slice of New York pizza must be crisp in all the right places. The best examples of New York pizza have a thin, flaky crust.
Decoding the Deliciousness: What is New York-style pizza?
New York-style pizza is more than just food; it's a culinary icon. Known for its distinctive large, foldable slices and a perfect balance of crispy and chewy crust, it's a must-try for any visitor (or local!). But what exactly defines New York pizza? Let's dive into the details of this beloved pie.
The Crust: The Heart of New York Pizza
The defining characteristic of New York-style pizza is its crust. It's thin, crispy, yet still foldable—a crucial element for the classic "New York fold." This isn't a cracker-crisp crust; it has a slight chewiness and a subtle flavor that complements the toppings without overpowering them. The best New York pizza crusts achieve this delicate balance through a specific dough recipe, high-temperature baking, and, often, high-gluten flour.
Key Characteristics of New York-Style Pizza
- Thin and Crispy Crust: The foundation has a crisp crust on the bottom and edges but remains pliable enough to fold.
- Large Slices: Typically cut from an 18-inch pie, slices are large and wide, designed to be eaten folded in half.
- Simple Toppings: While variations exist, classic New York pizza favors simple, high-quality toppings like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and perhaps a sprinkle of dried oregano.
- Foldability: True New York-style pizza is characterized by the ability to fold a slice in half without cracking.
- Oven Type: Pizza is traditionally baked in coal-fired or high-temperature deck ovens, which contribute to the unique crust texture and flavor. While wood-fired ovens are sometimes used, coal ovens are considered the most authentic.
Eating New York Pizza: The Fold
The "New York fold" is essential to the New York pizza experience. Folding the large slice in half makes it convenient to eat it while walking or standing and prevents toppings from sliding off. This practical method has become synonymous with the style itself.
Where to Find Authentic New York Pizza
While New York-style pizza can be found in many places, the most authentic versions are, unsurprisingly, found in New York City. Look for pizzerias that use high-quality ingredients, bake their pies in coal or high-temperature deck ovens, and understand the importance of the perfect crust.
Key Differences from Other Pizza Styles
- Compared to Neapolitan Pizza, New York pizza has a thinner, crispier crust and is typically larger. Neapolitan pizza is known for its soft, chewy crust and smaller size.
- Compared to Chicago Deep Dish: New York pizza drastically differs from Chicago deep dish, which has a thick, deep crust and a substantial amount of sauce and cheese.
New York-style pizza is a distinct and iconic culinary creation. Its unique crust, large slices, simple toppings, and famous fold make it a beloved food worldwide. Grabbing a slice of authentic New York pizza is a must if you're looking for an authentic taste of New York.