Neapolitan Margherita Pizza: Recipe, History, and Why Pizzeria Brandi in Naples Is a Must-Visit

Introduction

Pizza is one of the world’s most beloved foods, but nothing compares to an authentic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza. With its simple yet perfect combination of tomato, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, this pizza is a masterpiece of Italian cuisine.

But did you know that the Margherita Pizza was invented in Naples? And that Pizzeria Brandi is the legendary spot where it all began?

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1. The History of Margherita Pizza: A Royal Legacy

The Birth of a Legend

The Margherita Pizza was created in 1889 by pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito at Pizzeria Brandi (then called Pietro… Il Pizzaiolo). The pizza was made in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, who was visiting Naples.

Esposito crafted three pizzas for the queen, but she fell in love with the one topped with:

• Tomatoes (red, representing the Italian flag)
• Mozzarella (white)
• Basil (green)

This pizza was named “Pizza Margherita” in her honor, and it became a symbol of Italian unity and culinary excellence.

Why Is Neapolitan Pizza Special?

• UNESCO Recognition: In 2017, Neapolitan pizza-making was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
• Strict Rules: True Neapolitan pizza must follow Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) guidelines, including:
  • Hand-kneaded dough
  • Wood-fired oven (900°F/485°C)
  • San Marzano tomatoes
  • Fresh mozzarella (fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella)

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2. Authentic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 1 Pizza)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough (24-Hour Fermentation)

1. Mix the dough: Combine flour, water, salt, and yeast. Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth.
2. Let it rest: Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours (this develops flavor).
3. Shape the dough: Remove from fridge, divide into balls, and let rest for 2 hours at room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

• Crush San Marzano tomatoes by hand (no cooking needed).
• Season with salt and a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 900°F (485°C) (use a pizza stone or steel for best results).
2. Stretch the dough by hand (no rolling pin!) to a 12-inch circle.
3. Add toppings:
   • Spread tomato sauce thinly.
   • Place torn mozzarella evenly.
   • Add basil leaves.
   • Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 4: Bake (90 Seconds Max!)

• Bake for 60-90 seconds until the crust is charred and puffy.
• Remove, drizzle with olive oil, and serve immediately.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Margherita Pizza

✅ Use “00” flour for an authentic, soft crust. ✅ San Marzano tomatoes are a must—they’re sweeter and less acidic. ✅ No cheese overload—too much mozzarella makes the pizza soggy. ✅ Bake at the highest temperature possible (a home oven at 550°F/290°C works if you don’t have a wood-fired oven).

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3. Pizzeria Brandi: The Birthplace of Margherita Pizza

Why Visit Pizzeria Brandi?

• Historical Significance: This is where Raffaele Esposito created the first Margherita Pizza in 1889.
• Authentic Neapolitan Experience: The pizza is made exactly as it was 130+ years ago.
• UNESCO-Recognized: The pizzaiolos follow traditional methods passed down through generations.

Location & Address

📍 Pizzeria Brandi Address: Salita Sant’Anna di Palazzo, 1/2, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM (Closed Sundays) Website: www.pizzeriabrandi.it

What to Expect

• Wood-fired oven cooking at 900°F (485°C).
• Thin, soft, and slightly charred crust.
• Fresh, high-quality ingredients (San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella).
• A certificate of authenticity with every Margherita Pizza, proving its historical roots.

Best Time to Visit

• Avoid peak hours (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM and 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM).
• Go early or late for a shorter wait.
• Reservations recommended (especially in summer).

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4. Why You Must Try Margherita Pizza at Pizzeria Brandi

1. Taste History

Eating a Margherita at Brandi is like biting into a piece of Italian heritage. The flavors are exactly as Queen Margherita experienced them.

2. The Perfect Crust

Neapolitan pizza crust is soft, chewy, and slightly charred—a texture you won’t find in most pizzerias outside Naples.

3. The Freshest Ingredients

• San Marzano tomatoes (grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius).
• Buffalo mozzarella (creamy and rich).
• Fresh basil (added after baking for maximum aroma).

4. The Atmosphere

The pizzeria retains its 19th-century charm, with vintage decor and photos of its royal history.

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5. How to Recreate the Pizzeria Brandi Experience at Home

1. Invest in a Pizza Stone or Steel

• Mimics a wood-fired oven by retaining high heat.

2. Use the Right Ingredients

• “00” flour (available at Italian markets or online).
• San Marzano tomatoes (canned or fresh).
• Fresh mozzarella (avoid shredded cheese).

3. Play Italian Music & Set the Mood

• Put on Italian opera or Neapolitan folk songs.
• Light candles and use a red-checkered tablecloth for an authentic vibe.

4. Pair with Italian Wine

• Red: Aglianico (bold and fruity).
• White: Greco di Tufo (crisp and refreshing).

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Conclusion: A Slice of Italy in Every Bite

The Margherita Pizza is more than just food—it’s a symbol of Italian culture, history, and passion. Whether you’re making it at home or visiting Pizzeria Brandi in Naples, every bite tells a story.

Ready to try it? Book a trip to Naples or make your own Margherita Pizza tonight—either way, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!

Join the Hami Casa Bella community and share your pizza adventures with us! What’s your favorite pizza memory? Let us know in the comments!