Frozen pizza has been a popular convenience food for decades, but it is often thought of as a lower quality option compared to fresh, homemade pizzas. However, when it comes to Neapolitan frozen pizzas, this couldn't be further from the truth.
Neapolitan pizza, also known as Margherita pizza, is a traditional Italian pizza made with simple, high quality ingredients. It is characterized by a thin, soft crust and is typically topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. In order to be considered a true Neapolitan pizza, it must be made according to specific guidelines set by the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana, including using specific types of flour, tomatoes, and cheese.
While it may seem counterintuitive to freeze a pizza made with such fresh ingredients, the process of freezing Neapolitan pizzas actually preserves the quality and flavor of the pizza. When a pizza is made fresh, the dough is left to rise and ferment, which can affect the flavor and texture of the crust. Freezing the pizza at this stage locks in the perfect balance of fermentation and ensures that the crust will be perfectly soft and flavorful when it is baked.
But the benefits of Neapolitan frozen pizzas go beyond just the crust. The high quality ingredients used in these pizzas also hold up well in the freezing process. Fresh, ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese retain their flavor and texture when frozen, and can be just as delicious as when they are served fresh. Additionally, the use of fresh basil on these pizzas adds a burst of flavor and freshness that can be difficult to replicate with dried herbs.
One of the biggest benefits of frozen Neapolitan pizzas is the convenience factor. These pizzas can be stored in the freezer until you are ready to enjoy them, and can be easily baked in a conventional oven or even on a grill. This makes them a great option for a quick dinner or for when you have unexpected guests.
But don't let the convenience factor fool you – these pizzas are still of gourmet quality. Many Neapolitan frozen pizzas are made with the same high quality ingredients and attention to detail as their fresh counterparts. In fact, some frozen pizzas are even made using wood fired ovens, which gives them a unique, authentic flavor that can't be achieved with a conventional oven.
Another benefit of Neapolitan frozen pizzas is that they are often more affordable than their fresh counterparts. While it is true that the cost of high quality ingredients can add up, the fact that these pizzas can be made in large batches and frozen for later use helps to bring down the overall cost. This makes Neapolitan frozen pizzas a more accessible option for those who may not be able to afford to eat gourmet pizzas on a regular basis.
So the next time you are considering a frozen pizza for dinner, don't discount the option of a Neapolitan frozen pizza. These pizzas are made with high quality ingredients, are convenient and easy to prepare, and are still of gourmet quality. Whether you are looking for a quick dinner option or just want to enjoy the delicious flavor of a Neapolitan pizza without the hassle of making it from scratch, a frozen Neapolitan pizza is a great choice.