Impasto della Pizza al Metro (Meter-Long Pizza Dough)

Impasto della Pizza al Metro (Meter-Long Pizza Dough)

Impasto della Pizza al Metro (Meter-Long Pizza Dough)

Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 kg 1000g '00' flour
  • 650 ml lukewarm water
  • 20 g fresh yeast or 10 g active dry yeast
  • 20 g fine sea salt
  • 30 ml extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Instructions:
  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in 100 ml of lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the '00' flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the remaining 550 ml of lukewarm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  • Divide and Shape: Once risen, gently deflate the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a long rectangle, approximately 50 cm in length, to fit your baking tray.
  • Second Rise: Place the shaped dough onto a floured baking tray, cover, and let it rise for another 1 hour.
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F).
  • Add Toppings: Once the dough has risen, add your desired toppings, such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and other ingredients.
  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  • Serve: Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot.
  • Variations and Tips:
  • Flour Substitutes: If '00' flour is unavailable, you can use all-purpose flour, though the texture may differ slightly.
  • Yeast Alternatives: Active dry yeast can be substituted for fresh yeast; use half the amount (10 g) and dissolve it in the water as directed.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For a vegan version, ensure all toppings are plant-based and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Hydration: Adjust the water content based on the flour's absorption; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
  • Storage: The dough can be refrigerated after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with the second rise.

Pizza al Metro, or “meter-long pizza,” is a delightful Italian specialty originating from the Campania region, particularly popular in Naples and its surroundings. This pizza is traditionally served in a long, rectangular shape, allowing for various toppings along its length, making it perfect for sharing among friends and family.

Let me show you how I make Impasto della Pizza al Metro:

Impasto della Pizza al Metro (Meter-Long Pizza Dough)
Impasto della Pizza al Metro (Meter-Long Pizza Dough)

When preparing the dough for Impasto della Pizza al Metro, it’s essential to understand the process and anticipate the following:

1. Dough Consistency:

  • Initial Mixing: The dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky after mixing. This is normal; avoid adding excessive flour at this stage.
  • Kneading: As you knead, the dough will become smoother and more elastic. This process develops the gluten, contributing to the dough’s structure and chewiness.

2. Fermentation:

  • First Rise: During the initial fermentation (approximately 2 hours), the dough should double in size. This rise is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
  • Second Rise: After shaping, allow the dough to rise again for about 1 hour. This step ensures a light and airy crust.

3. Shaping:

  • Stretching: Gently stretch the dough to fit your baking tray. Avoid using a rolling pin, as it can deflate the dough and disrupt gluten development.
  • Handling: Be gentle to maintain the air pockets formed during fermentation, which contribute to the crust’s texture.

4. Baking:

  • Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F). A hot oven is essential for achieving a crisp crust and properly melted toppings.
  • Baking Time: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent over-baking.

5. Final Product:

  • Texture: Expect a crust that is crisp on the outside with a chewy interior. The combination of high hydration and proper fermentation contributes to this texture.
  • Flavor: The dough should have a subtle, slightly tangy flavor, a result of the fermentation process.

Additional Tips:

  • Hydration: If the dough feels too dry during mixing, add a small amount of water. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, incorporate a bit more flour.
  • Temperature: Ensure your water is lukewarm (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F) to activate the yeast effectively.
  • Patience: Allowing adequate time for fermentation and rising is crucial. Rushing these steps can result in a denser crust.

By following these guidelines, you can anticipate a successful dough-making process, leading to a delicious Impasto della Pizza al Metro.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in 100 ml of lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ’00’ flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the remaining 550 ml of lukewarm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Divide and Shape: Once risen, gently deflate the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a long rectangle, approximately 50 cm in length, to fit your baking tray.
  6. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough onto a floured baking tray, cover, and let it rise for another 1 hour.
  7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F).
  8. Add Toppings: Once the dough has risen, add your desired toppings, such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and other ingredients.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  10. Serve: Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot.

Variations and Tips:

  • Flour Substitutes: If ’00’ flour is unavailable, you can use all-purpose flour, though the texture may differ slightly.
  • Yeast Alternatives: Active dry yeast can be substituted for fresh yeast; use half the amount (10 g) and dissolve it in the water as directed.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For a vegan version, ensure all toppings are plant-based and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Hydration: Adjust the water content based on the flour’s absorption; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
  • Storage: The dough can be refrigerated after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with the second rise.

Notes:

  • The dough’s texture should be soft and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
  • The second rise is crucial for achieving a light and airy crust.
  • Baking times may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on the pizza to prevent over-baking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 250 kcal
Protein 8 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fat 4 g
Fiber 2 g
Sodium 400 mg

I hope this guide has made making Impasto della Pizza al Metro seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comment below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment.

Sources

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