Pizza Napoletana Diavola
Pizza Napoletana Diavola balances spicy salami and a crispy crust for an authentic Italian flavor explosion. This dish is loved for its simplicity and bold flavors.
Prep Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or dough scraper
Baking stone or steel
Rolling Pin
Pizza peel or flat baking sheet
Saucepan for cooking sauce
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour 500 g
- 1 ½ cups lukewarm water 360 ml
- 1 ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp active dry yeast
For the Sauce
- 1 can San Marzano tomatoes 14 oz / 400 g
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Sea salt to taste
For the Topping
- 7 oz spicy salami 200 g, such as 'nduja or pepperoni
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese 225 g, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes optional
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, forming a well in the center. Dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and pour it into the well.
Tip: Let the yeast sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly for better activation.
Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Make the Sauce
While the dough is rising, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
Tip: Use fresh tomatoes for a more robust sauce if desired.
Add the San Marzano tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon. Season with sea salt, simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened, and then let cool.
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to the highest setting, ideally around 475°F (245°C), with a baking stone inside. Divide the dough into four equal portions and shape each into a ball. Let rest for 15 minutes.
Tip: Keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
On a floured surface, gently stretch each ball into a 10-12 inch round, maintaining a thicker edge for the crust. Place the shaped dough on a pizza peel lined with parchment paper.
Assemble the Pizza
Spread an even layer of sauce over each base, leaving a little edge for the crust. Scatter slices of mozzarella and evenly distribute the spicy salami.
Tip: Don’t overload the toppings to ensure a crispy crust.
Pro tips for Pizza Napoletana Diavola
Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
Adjust the spice level by choosing different salami or adding more red pepper flakes.
Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.
Let the dough rise longer if you have the time; this improves flavor and texture.
Use a pizza stone to achieve crispy crusts each time.
Keyword Authentic Pizza, Diavola, Napoletana Recipe, Pizza Napoletana, Spicy Italian Pizza