The Pizza Lab: How To Make Fried Pizza At Home (à La Forcella)

The Pizza Lab: How To Make Fried Pizza At Home (à la Forcella)

Calling all pizza lovers! If you’ve never experienced the delight of a fried pizza, you’re in for a treat. Imagine a golden, crispy crust enveloping a harmonious blend of flavorful toppings and gooey cheese. It’s a taste sensation that originated in Naples, Italy, and now you can recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, à la Forcella style. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, dive into The Pizza Lab, and learn how to make fried pizza from scratch!

Why Fried Pizza?

You may be wondering, why fry the pizza instead of baking it? Well, frying the dough creates a unique texture and flavor profile that is irresistible. The dough becomes incredibly light and airy on the inside while developing a satisfying crunch on the outside. This cooking method allows the toppings to meld together beautifully, resulting in a pizza experience unlike any other.

Getting Started: The Dough

First things first, you need to prepare the perfect dough for your fried pizza. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 1/3 cups warm water
3. 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
4. 1 teaspoon salt
5. 1 teaspoon sugar

Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

The Art of Stretching the Dough

Now comes the fun part – stretching the dough like a pro. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect shape:

• Start by gently stretching the dough with your hands, pushing from the center towards the edges.
• Use a rolling pin to further stretch the dough, ensuring it maintains an even thickness.
• For an authentic Forcella-style result, make the pizza slightly oval-shaped.

The Essential Toppings

Traditionally, fried pizzas have simple but flavorful toppings. Keep it classic or get creative – the choice is yours! Here are a few popular options:

• Marinara: Tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil.
• Margherita: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and olive oil.
• Prosciutto e Funghi: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, and mushrooms.

Remember, a little goes a long way when it comes to toppings. Don’t overload your pizza; let the fried crust shine!

Frying the Pizza

Now that your dough is stretched and your toppings are ready, it’s time to fry the pizza to perfection. Here’s how:

1. Heat a generous amount of oil in a deep saucepan or frying pan.
2. Carefully slide the pizza into the hot oil, and let it fry for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown.
3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried pizza to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.

Repeat the frying process for each pizza, adjusting the heat as needed to ensure even cooking.

Serving and Enjoying

Now that your homemade fried pizza is ready, it’s time to serve and savor every delicious bite. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Garnish your fried pizza with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Pair it with a refreshing glass of chilled Prosecco or a craft beer, if you prefer.
• Invite friends and family over for a pizza party and let them customize their own fried creations.

Enjoy the crispy crunch, the melty cheese, and the burst of flavors that only a homemade fried pizza can deliver!

Conclusion

Fried pizza is a delightful twist on the classic baked version. By following the steps outlined in The Pizza Lab, you can bring the taste of Forcella’s famous fried pizza straight to your kitchen. Experiment with different toppings, get creative with your combinations, and enjoy the crispy, crunchy goodness of homemade fried pizza. So, get your frying pans ready and let’s embark on a pizza-making adventure!