Big Apple Pizza: Make Your Own Taste of New York

Introduction:

When people think of New York City, they often think of iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and, of course, pizza. Whether you’re in the city or making it at home, Big Apple Pizza delivers that authentic New York flavor in every bite.

1. What is Big Apple Pizza?

Big Apple Pizza is inspired by classic New York-style pizza, known for its large, wide slices and thin, crisp-yet-chewy crust. It’s typically sold by the slice in pizza joints across the city and is meant to be eaten on the go, often folded in half. The hallmark of this style is its simplicity, with classic toppings like mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and sometimes pepperoni or sausage.

2. Key Features of New York-Style Pizza:

• Thin, Foldable Crust: The dough is rolled thin but still soft enough to fold when you pick up a slice. The crust is crispy on the outside but chewy on the inside, offering the perfect texture.
• Generous Cheese: A good Big Apple Pizza has a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, melted to perfection.
• Simple Sauce: The tomato sauce is made with basic ingredients—crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs—to allow the natural flavors of the pizza to shine.
• Large Slices: The pizza is typically 18-20 inches in diameter, and each slice is large enough that you may only need one or two to fill up.

3. Big Apple Pizza Recipe:

If you’re craving the taste of New York in your own home, here’s how to make Big Apple Pizza that captures the authentic flavors of the Big Apple.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices or Italian sausage (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Olive oil for brushing the crust

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until the dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a large, 18-inch circle. The dough should be thin but leave a slight lip around the edge for the crust.
3. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges of the crust.
2. EEvensprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3. Add any additional toppings, such as pepperoni slices or Italian sausage, if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

1. Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. For a crispy finish, brush the crust with a little olive oil in the final few minutes of baking.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into large, foldable pieces.
2. Serve with fresh basil on top if you like a touch of freshness.

4. Why Everyone Loves Big Apple Pizza:

The beauty of Big Apple Pizza lies in its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients and the right technique, you can create a pizza that’s packed with flavor and has the authentic feel of a New York slice. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheese pizza or prefer loaded toppings, the foundation of a Big Apple Pizza remains the same—perfectly baked crust, rich tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese.

Conclusion:

Big Apple Pizza captures the essence of New York’s pizza culture in every bite. With its thin, foldable crust and rich, savory toppings, it’s a slice of the Big Apple no matter where you are. Whether you’re making it at home or grabbing a slice from your local pizzeria, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a classic New York-style pizza. So, next time you’re in the mood for pizza, give the Big Apple Pizza a try and experience a true New York treat.

Internal and External Links:

• Explore our Pizza Recipes page for more delicious options.
• Check out our Baking Supplies Store for all the tools you need to make the perfect pizza.