What Is Brooklyn Style Pizza?

Hey there, and welcome to our community of pizza enthusiasts! Today we’re going to talk about a classic and beloved pizza style: Brooklyn style pizza. So What Is Brooklyn Style Pizza?

Brooklyn style pizza is a thin-crust pizza that originated in New York City’s Brooklyn borough. In our article on what is Brooklyn style pizza, we’ll explore the history and characteristics of this classic pizza style.

We’ll discuss the key features of Brooklyn style pizza, such as its large and foldable slices, crispy crust, and unique flavor profile. We’ll also discuss the differences between Brooklyn style pizza and other pizza styles, such as New York-style pizza and Neapolitan pizza.

Additionally, we’ll provide tips for making your own Brooklyn style pizza at home, including suggestions for the best toppings and sauces to use.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Brooklyn style pizza or simply curious about this classic pizza style, our article on what is Brooklyn style pizza will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed and delicious pizza order. So stick around and let’s dive into the world of Brooklyn style pizza!

What Is Brooklyn Style Pizza?

Brooklyn-style pizza is a popular pizza style that originated in New York City. It is known for its crispy crust, large slices, and delicious toppings. The pizza is named after the borough of Brooklyn, which is home to many famous pizzerias. The following are some of the defining characteristics and features of Brooklyn-style pizza:

1. Crispy crust: Brooklyn-style pizza has a crispy, thin crust that is not too chewy. The crust is often made with high-gluten flour, which gives it a crisp texture.
2. Large slices: Brooklyn-style pizza is typically served in large slices that are foldable. The slices are big enough to fold in half and eat with your hands.
3. Simple toppings: The toppings on a Brooklyn-style pizza are often simple and include tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a few select toppings such as pepperoni or sausage.
4. Charred crust: A hallmark of Brooklyn-style pizza is a slightly charred crust. The pizza is typically cooked in a brick oven, which gives the crust a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
5. High-quality ingredients: Brooklyn-style pizza is made with high-quality ingredients, such as fresh mozzarella cheese and San Marzano tomatoes. These ingredients give the pizza its signature flavor and texture.
6. Neapolitan influence: Brooklyn-style pizza has its roots in Neapolitan pizza, which originated in Naples, Italy. The pizza is often cooked in a similar style to Neapolitan pizza, but with a slightly thinner crust.

Overall, Brooklyn-style pizza is a delicious and unique pizza style that is loved by many pizza enthusiasts. Its crispy crust, large slices, and simple toppings make it a classic pizza that is sure to satisfy.

The Brooklyn Pizza Crust: Thin, Foldable, and Tasty

The Brooklyn-style pizza crust is one of the defining features of this classic pizza style. It is known for being thin and foldable, with a crispy exterior and chewy interior. The crust is made with a high-protein flour, which gives it its signature texture and allows it to hold up to a variety of toppings.

The dough for the crust is typically stretched by hand and topped with a simple tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. It is then baked in a high-temperature oven, which results in a crispy crust and melted cheese.

Some variations of Brooklyn-style pizza may feature a thicker crust or additional toppings, but the basic characteristics of a thin, foldable crust remain the same. The crust is often flavored with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, which adds to its unique taste and texture.

Overall, the Brooklyn-style pizza crust is a testament to the art of traditional pizza-making, with its simple yet satisfying combination of high-quality ingredients and expert technique.

Traditional Brooklyn Pizza Toppings and Combinations

Traditional Brooklyn pizza toppings include:

1. Tomato sauce: A classic pizza sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and various herbs.
2. Mozzarella cheese: The cheese of choice for most pizzerias, which is known for its mild taste and excellent melting qualities.
3. Parmesan cheese: A hard, nutty-flavored cheese that is often grated over the top of pizza as a finishing touch.
4. Basil: A fragrant herb that pairs well with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Pepperoni: A spicy, cured sausage that is a staple on most pizzas.
6. Mushrooms: Fresh or canned mushrooms are often added to Brooklyn-style pizza for their earthy flavor.
7. Onions: Sliced or diced onions are a common pizza topping that add a sweet and savory flavor.
8. Sausage: Another popular meat topping, often made from pork or a combination of pork and beef.
9. Peppers: Bell peppers or hot peppers are often added to pizza for their unique flavor and color.
10. Anchovies: A salty fish that is commonly used as a pizza topping in Brooklyn.

Some popular pizza combinations include:

1. Margherita: Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil.
2. Pepperoni: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.
3. White pizza: A pizza without tomato sauce, typically made with mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Meat lovers: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, and bacon.
5. Veggie: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives.

Note that these are just a few examples, and the toppings and combinations used on Brooklyn-style pizza can vary depending on the pizzeria and the personal preferences of the customer.

Comparing Brooklyn Style Pizza to Other Pizza Styles

Brooklyn style pizza has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from other pizza styles. Here are some key differences between Brooklyn style pizza and other popular pizza styles:

1. New York-style pizza: New York-style pizza is similar to Brooklyn style pizza in terms of the thin crust and foldable slice. However, New York-style pizza typically has a larger slice and a chewier crust. The sauce and cheese are also applied in a different way, with the cheese often covering the sauce on a New York-style pizza.
2. Neapolitan pizza: Neapolitan pizza is a classic Italian pizza style that originated in Naples. It has a softer, thicker crust than Brooklyn style pizza, and is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a very high temperature. Neapolitan pizza is often topped with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil.
3. Chicago-style pizza: Chicago-style pizza is known for its deep dish crust, which is more like a pie than a traditional pizza crust. The toppings are layered in reverse order, with the cheese on the bottom, followed by toppings, and then the sauce on top. The result is a very thick, hearty pizza that is quite different from Brooklyn style pizza.
4. Sicilian pizza: Sicilian pizza is similar to Brooklyn style pizza in that it has a thick, square-shaped crust. However, Sicilian pizza is typically much thicker than Brooklyn style pizza, with a spongy, bread-like texture. The toppings on Sicilian pizza are often baked directly into the crust, rather than being placed on top.

Overall, Brooklyn style pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust and foldable slices. While it shares some similarities with other pizza styles, it has its own unique flavor and texture that make it a favorite among pizza lovers.

The Art of Eating Brooklyn Style Pizza: Folding and Enjoying

Brooklyn style pizza is meant to be enjoyed in a specific way, which includes folding the slice in half and eating it on the go. Here are some tips on how to properly enjoy Brooklyn style pizza:

1. Fold the slice: The crust of a Brooklyn style pizza is thin and foldable, so take advantage of that by folding the slice in half lengthwise. This makes it easier to hold and eat, and also helps prevent the toppings from sliding off.
2. Use a napkin: Because the pizza is so thin and foldable, it can be messy to eat. Be sure to have a napkin handy to catch any drips or grease.
3. Take a big bite: Once you’ve folded the slice, take a big bite that includes both the crust and the toppings. This allows you to fully taste all of the flavors in each bite.
4. Eat on the go: Brooklyn style pizza is meant to be eaten on the go, so don’t be afraid to take your slice with you and enjoy it while you’re walking around the city.
5. Experiment with toppings: While traditional Brooklyn style pizza toppings include tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, feel free to experiment with different toppings to find your perfect combination. Some popular toppings include mushrooms, sausage, onions, and peppers.

Remember, the key to enjoying Brooklyn style pizza is to keep it simple and enjoy it the way it was meant to be eaten – folded, messy, and on the go.

Finding Authentic Brooklyn Style Pizza: Tips and Recommendations

To find authentic Brooklyn style pizza, it is recommended to look for pizzerias that have been around for a long time and have a reputation for serving quality pizza. Some pizzerias in Brooklyn that are known for their authentic pizza include Di Fara Pizza, Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano, and L&B Spumoni Gardens.

It’s also important to look for certain characteristics that are associated with Brooklyn style pizza, such as a thin and crispy crust that’s slightly charred on the bottom, a light and tangy tomato sauce, and fresh toppings that are evenly distributed across the pizza.

Additionally, it’s recommended to ask the pizzeria if they use a coal or wood-fired oven, as this can have a big impact on the flavor and texture of the pizza. Many authentic Brooklyn pizzerias use these types of ovens, which can reach very high temperatures and create a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate with other types of ovens.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and ask locals for recommendations when looking for authentic Brooklyn style pizza. Many people in the area are passionate about their pizza and are happy to share their favorite spots with others.

History and Origins of Brooklyn Style Pizza

Brooklyn Style Pizza has a long and rich history, rooted in the Italian-American community that thrived in Brooklyn, New York during the early 1900s. In those days, many Italian immigrants who settled in Brooklyn brought with them the culinary traditions of their homeland, including the art of pizza-making. Over time, these immigrants adapted their recipes to suit the available ingredients and local tastes, creating a unique style of pizza that has become known as Brooklyn Style.

Some sources credit the rise of Brooklyn Style Pizza to the opening of Patsy’s Pizzeria in 1933 by Pasquale “Patsy” Lancieri. Others attribute it to the emergence of Di Fara Pizza in the 1960s, which has since become an iconic destination for pizza lovers seeking the authentic Brooklyn experience. Regardless of its exact origins, Brooklyn Style Pizza has become a beloved part of New York City’s culinary landscape and has since spread across the country.

Brooklyn Style Pizza is typically characterized by its thin, crispy crust, which is often foldable and has a slightly chewy texture. The crust is typically cooked at high temperatures in a brick oven or on a stone, which helps to create a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, airy interior. The sauce used on Brooklyn Style Pizza is typically made from San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet, rich flavor and low acidity. The cheese used is often mozzarella, although some pizzerias may use a blend of cheeses.

Brooklyn Style Pizza is typically cut into large, triangular slices that are meant to be folded in half and eaten with the hands. The toppings used on Brooklyn Style Pizza can vary widely, but some popular options include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Some pizzerias may also offer unique toppings such as artichokes, prosciutto, or ricotta cheese.

Today, Brooklyn Style Pizza can be found in pizzerias and restaurants across the United States, and it continues to be a popular and beloved pizza style among pizza enthusiasts.

Cooking Your Own Brooklyn Style Pizza at Home

To cook your own Brooklyn style pizza at home, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, onions)

Here are the steps to follow:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Mix well.
2. Add warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Stretch and shape the dough into a 14-inch circle.
7. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce.
10. Add your desired toppings, distributing them evenly over the cheese.
11. Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade Brooklyn style pizza!

Brooklyn Style Pizza vs. New York Style: Understanding the Differences

The Best Pizzerias for Brooklyn Style Pizza: A Culinary Tour

Here are some of the best pizzerias known for serving Brooklyn-style pizza in New York City:

1. Di Fara Pizza – located in Midwood, Brooklyn
2. Lucali – located in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
3. Paulie Gee’s – located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn
4. Totonno’s – located in Coney Island, Brooklyn
5. Juliana’s – located in Dumbo, Brooklyn
6. Emily – located in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn
7. L&B Spumoni Gardens – located in Gravesend, Brooklyn
8. Joe’s Pizza – located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan
9. Patsy’s Pizzeria – located in East Harlem, Manhattan
10. Lombardi’s Pizza – located in Nolita, Manhattan

It’s important to note that taste is subjective and personal preferences can vary. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and ask for recommendations from locals when searching for the best pizzerias.

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FAQs

What is Brooklyn-style pizza?

Brooklyn-style pizza is a type of pizza that originated in Brooklyn, New York. It has a thin and crispy crust, similar to Neapolitan-style pizza, but larger in size.

What are the toppings typically found on Brooklyn-style pizza?

Brooklyn-style pizza typically features classic pizza toppings such as tomato sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, but may also include other toppings such as mushrooms, onions, and sausage.

How is Brooklyn-style pizza different from New York-style pizza?

Brooklyn-style pizza is similar to New York-style pizza in that it has a thin crust, but it is larger and thinner than traditional New York-style pizza.

Is Brooklyn-style pizza only available in Brooklyn?

No, Brooklyn-style pizza can be found in many pizzerias across the United States and even internationally.

What makes Brooklyn-style pizza unique?

Brooklyn-style pizza is unique because of its thin and crispy crust, which is larger and thinner than other types of pizza.

Can Brooklyn-style pizza be made with different types of crust?

Yes, Brooklyn-style pizza can be made with different types of crust, but the classic version features a thin and crispy crust.

What types of cheese are typically used on Brooklyn-style pizza?

Mozzarella cheese is the most commonly used cheese on Brooklyn-style pizza, but other types of cheese such as provolone, parmesan, and romano may also be used.

Can Brooklyn-style pizza be made with gluten-free crust?

Yes, some pizzerias offer Brooklyn-style pizza with gluten-free crust for customers with dietary restrictions.

Can Brooklyn-style pizza be ordered by the slice?

Yes, some pizzerias offer Brooklyn-style pizza by the slice, but it is more commonly sold as a whole pie.

Is Brooklyn-style pizza more expensive than other types of pizza?

The cost of Brooklyn-style pizza varies depending on the pizzeria and location, but it is generally priced similarly to other types of pizza.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brooklyn-style pizza is a popular pizza style that is characterized by its large, thin, and crispy crust. It is typically larger than a traditional New York-style pizza and is often served as a foldable slice that can be easily eaten on-the-go.

Brooklyn-style pizza is typically made with high-gluten flour, which gives the dough its crispy texture and chewy consistency. The pizza is often topped with classic ingredients such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a variety of meats and vegetables.

The origins of Brooklyn-style pizza can be traced back to the Italian immigrants who settled in Brooklyn in the early 20th century. Over time, Brooklyn-style pizza has become an iconic food in the borough and has gained a reputation for its unique flavor and texture.

Today, Brooklyn-style pizza is enjoyed by pizza lovers around the world and has become a popular pizza style in many pizzerias and restaurants. With its crispy crust and classic toppings, Brooklyn-style pizza continues to be a beloved food that is enjoyed by pizza enthusiasts of all ages.

Ref:

‘Brooklyn Style Pizza’ Meets the Real Deal