Vegan Pizza? Choose Neapolitan Style

There is no denying that pizza is one of the most delicious dishes known to man. Unfortunately, for those who choose to abstain from eating animals and their byproducts, it seems like they are out of luck in enjoying this incredibly delicious meal. When most of us think of a pie we think of the meaty, cheesy, saucy dish that is served at the local parlor. If not, then we imagine the deep dish of Chicago or the large foldable slices in New York. Well, these are merely derivatives of the source. The original and most authentic version of this staple is in fact completely vegan and hails from Naples. The Neapolitan style of pizza fully encapsulates the essence of this Italian dish, and it is free from any animal products.

To make an authentic vegan Neapolitan style pizza one must realize that there are very strict standards that guide how this dish is made and what ingredients are used.

The flour must be a very fine, low gluten version called Tipo "00." This produces the famously thin soft crust that so many enjoy. This is mixed with fresh pure water and natural yeast to create yeasty dough on which the cook will layer the toppings. Next, San Marzano tomatoes, which are grown only in the rich volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, are used for their unbridled sweetness and low acidity that makes them caramelize in the wood-fired oven. The key to the flavor of this particular dish is the choice of herbs used. Only the freshest basil, picked at the peak of flavor, is used to provide the signature flavor.

With all of the ingredients in place, the pizza chef will mix and shape the dough by hand. This vegan crust needs time to rise before baking, and so after thoroughly combining the flour, water and yeast, it is left to rest for up to five hours. After it has risen, the cook tosses it by hand without assistance of a rolling pin. The toppings are layered, and the finished product is placed into the specialized oven.

The special oven used to make this type of pizza involves a large brick structure with a thick stone floor. The heating source is always wood and kindling, and the fire must be very hot. With this style of cooking, the meal is prepared right on the stone surface without pans or racks. It is only left to cook for a short period of time before it is finished, and this results in a soft thin crust with a thin layer of crunch on the outside.

A pizza made in this most traditional and ancient way is often made in accordance with the precepts of veganism. This offers those who are under dietary restrictions the opportunity to enjoy the deliciousness of a hot slice, just like everyone else.