Neapolitan Fried Pizza

Have you ever heard of fried pizza? This Neapolitan fast food will make you fall in love.

Our Elpidio will take you in the heart of Naples to show you how fried pizza was born!

Pizza fritta holds a unique place in the fast-food scene.

In Naples, not everyone had woodfire ovens for pizza. So, clever pizzaiolos faced the challenge by frying instead.

This innovation created pizza fritta – a practical and delicious choice without needing a special oven.

The classic one has ricotta , salame and cigoli which is pork fat slow cooked and made crispy.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For Frying and Toppings:

• Vegetable oil for frying
• Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

2. Shape the Dough:

• Once the dough has risen, divide it into golf ball-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disk, creating mini pizza bases.

3. Fry the Dough:

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Gently slide each dough disk into the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.

4. Add Toppings:

• Once the fried dough is ready, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over each piece. Add slices of fresh mozzarella and a few basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.

5. Serve:

• Drizzle olive oil over the top and serve the Neapolitan Fried Pizzas while they are still warm.