When it comes to pizza, the sauce is the foundation upon which the entire culinary masterpiece is built. It’s the glue that holds the cheese, toppings, and crust together, and its flavor profile can make or break the overall taste experience. But have you ever stopped to think about the type of tomato sauce used on pizza? Is it just a simple can of crushed tomatoes, or is there more to it than meets the eye?
A Brief History of Tomato Sauce on Pizza
To understand the type of tomato sauce used on pizza, it’s essential to take a step back and look at the history of pizza itself. Pizza originated in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century, and the first pizzas were cooked in wood-fired ovens and topped with ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and anchovies. Tomatoes were introduced to Italy from the New World and were initially believed to be poisonous. However, by the mid-19th century, they had become a staple ingredient in Neapolitan cuisine.
The first tomato sauce used on pizza was likely a simple mixture of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. This sauce was cooked down to create a thick, rich paste that was spread over the dough, topped with cheese and other ingredients, and then baked in a wood-fired oven.
The Evolution of Tomato Sauce on Pizza
As pizza spread throughout Italy and eventually the world, the type of tomato sauce used on pizza began to evolve. In the United States, for example, pizza makers began to use a sweeter, more processed tomato sauce made from canned crushed tomatoes. This sauce was often mixed with sugar, salt, and spices to create a milder flavor profile that appealed to American tastes.
In Italy, however, the traditional Neapolitan-style tomato sauce remained the gold standard. This sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, which are sweeter and less acidic than other varieties. The tomatoes are crushed by hand and then cooked down with garlic, olive oil, and herbs to create a rich, intense sauce.
The Anatomy of a Great Tomato Sauce
So what makes a great tomato sauce for pizza? Here are a few key factors to consider:
Tomato Variety
The type of tomato used in the sauce is crucial. San Marzano tomatoes are the preferred choice for Neapolitan-style pizza, but other varieties like Plum and Roma can also be used. These tomatoes have a higher solid content and less water than other varieties, which makes them ideal for cooking down into a thick, rich sauce.
Acidity Level
The acidity level of the tomatoes is also important. Tomatoes that are too acidic can create a sauce that’s too sharp and overpowering, while tomatoes that are too sweet can create a sauce that’s too bland. San Marzano tomatoes have a natural acidity level that’s balanced by their sweetness, making them ideal for pizza sauce.
Spices and Seasonings
The spices and seasonings used in the sauce can also make or break the flavor profile. Garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano are classic additions to tomato sauce, but other ingredients like sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes can also be used to create a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Method
The cooking method used to prepare the sauce is also crucial. A great tomato sauce should be cooked slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. This can be done on the stovetop, in the oven, or even in a slow cooker.
Types of Tomato Sauce Used on Pizza
There are several types of tomato sauce used on pizza, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Here are a few examples:
Neapolitan-Style Tomato Sauce
This is the traditional tomato sauce used on Neapolitan-style pizza. It’s made from San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. The sauce is cooked slowly over low heat to create a thick, rich paste that’s spread over the dough and topped with cheese and other ingredients.
New York-Style Tomato Sauce
This type of tomato sauce is used on New York-style pizza and is made from canned crushed tomatoes. The sauce is sweeter and milder than Neapolitan-style sauce, with a thinner consistency that’s spread over the dough in a thin layer.
Sicilian-Style Tomato Sauce
This type of tomato sauce is used on Sicilian-style pizza and is made from canned crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like oregano and basil. The sauce is thicker and more robust than Neapolitan-style sauce, with a sweeter flavor profile that’s balanced by the savory flavor of the cheese and toppings.
How to Make Your Own Tomato Sauce for Pizza
Making your own tomato sauce for pizza is easier than you think. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
- Stir in the chopped basil and oregano.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Conclusion
The type of tomato sauce used on pizza is a matter of personal preference, but there’s no denying the importance of a great sauce in creating a truly exceptional pizza. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Neapolitan-style sauce or prefer a sweeter, more processed sauce, there’s a type of tomato sauce out there for everyone. By understanding the anatomy of a great tomato sauce and experimenting with different ingredients and cooking methods, you can create your own unique sauce that elevates your pizza game to the next level.
So the next time you’re at your favorite pizzeria or making a pie at home, take a moment to appreciate the sauce. It may be the unsung hero of the pizza world, but it’s the foundation upon which every great pizza is built.
What is the most commonly used type of tomato sauce on pizza?
The most commonly used type of tomato sauce on pizza is crushed San Marzano tomatoes. This type of sauce is preferred by many pizzerias due to its sweet and low-acid flavor profile, which complements the cheese and other toppings on a pizza. San Marzano tomatoes are a specific variety of tomato that is grown in the Campania region of Italy and are known for their sweet-tart flavor and low water content.
The use of crushed San Marzano tomatoes allows for a smooth and even consistency in the sauce, which is important for achieving a well-balanced flavor on a pizza. Additionally, the sweetness of the San Marzano tomatoes helps to balance out the saltiness of the cheese and other toppings, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is characteristic of a classic Neapolitan-style pizza.
What is the difference between tomato sauce and pizza sauce?
Tomato sauce and pizza sauce are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Tomato sauce is a more general term that refers to a sauce made from tomatoes that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta, meatballs, and pizza. Pizza sauce, on the other hand, is a specific type of tomato sauce that is designed specifically for use on pizza.
Pizza sauce is typically made with a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, and spices, and is often sweeter and more concentrated than tomato sauce. This is because pizza sauce needs to be able to withstand the high temperatures of the oven and still retain its flavor and texture. Additionally, pizza sauce is often made with a higher ratio of tomato solids to liquid, which helps to create a thicker and more robust sauce that can hold its own against the cheese and other toppings.
Can I use fresh tomatoes to make pizza sauce?
While it is technically possible to use fresh tomatoes to make pizza sauce, it is not the most common or recommended approach. Fresh tomatoes have a higher water content than canned or crushed tomatoes, which can make the sauce too watery and difficult to cook down to the right consistency.
Additionally, fresh tomatoes may not have the same level of sweetness and depth of flavor as canned or crushed tomatoes, which can affect the overall flavor of the pizza. Canned or crushed tomatoes, on the other hand, have been cooked down to remove excess water and concentrate the flavors, making them a better choice for pizza sauce.
How do I make homemade pizza sauce?
Making homemade pizza sauce is a relatively simple process that requires just a few ingredients, including crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, garlic, olive oil, and spices. To start, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, garlic, and olive oil in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Once the sauce has reached a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly. Season the sauce with salt, sugar, and spices to taste, and then let it cool before using it on your pizza.
What is the role of acidity in pizza sauce?
Acidity plays an important role in pizza sauce, as it helps to balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the cheese and other toppings. A small amount of acidity, typically in the form of citric acid or lemon juice, can help to brighten the flavors of the sauce and create a more balanced flavor profile.
However, too much acidity can be overpowering and throw off the balance of the sauce. The ideal level of acidity will depend on the specific type of tomatoes used and the desired flavor profile of the pizza. In general, a small amount of acidity is preferred, as it helps to enhance the flavors of the sauce without overpowering them.
Can I use other types of tomatoes to make pizza sauce?
While San Marzano tomatoes are the most traditional and widely used variety for pizza sauce, other types of tomatoes can also be used. Some popular alternatives include plum tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, and even cherry tomatoes.
However, it’s worth noting that these tomatoes may have a slightly different flavor profile and texture than San Marzano tomatoes, which can affect the overall character of the sauce. Plum tomatoes, for example, have a higher water content than San Marzano tomatoes, which can make the sauce more watery. Roma tomatoes, on the other hand, have a more intense flavor than San Marzano tomatoes, which can add depth and complexity to the sauce.
How long does homemade pizza sauce last in the fridge?
Homemade pizza sauce can last for several days to a week when stored in the fridge, depending on the acidity level and storage conditions. It’s best to store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Before using the sauce, give it a good stir and check its flavor and texture. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can thin it out with a little water or olive oil. If the sauce has developed an off flavor or texture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.