Classic Margherita Pizzas traditionally use San Marzano tomatoes, which are a well-known variety.
They are the favorite ones when it comes to making Margherita pizzas due to their rich flavor, smooth texture, and little moisture content. The balanced flavor and low acidity make them an ideal one for the pizza sauce, as it helps to avoid a soggy crust.
These extremely popular tomatoes are known for their unique taste and are therefore ideal for creating rich and flavorful tomato sauce that plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors of the pizza.
Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating world of San Marzano tomatoes and know why they are the perfect ones for Margherita pizza.
Also, read: How Many Tomatoes Should You Eat Everyday?
Why Are They Preferred For Margherita Pizza?
Table of Contents
Margherita Pizza is a Neapolitan pizza made with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, garlic, basil, crushed black pepper, and olive oil.
San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for Margherita pizza due to their unique qualities that are known to enhance the overall flavor and texture of the pizza.
The chefs and home cooks swear by San Marzano tomatoes due to their exceptional flavor and texture that leaves a long-lasting mark on Italian gastronomy.
Balanced Flavor
These tomatoes have an inherent sweetness and a low acidic content that blends into a harmonious flavor when they are added alongside mozzarella cheese. It results in an authentic taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
Smooth Texture
San Marzano tomatoes are known to have thick flesh along with fewer seeds. This is advantageous since it results in a less watery sauce and doesn’t make the crust soggy but at the same time provides a strong flavor. The thick texture of the sauce also adjusts with the pizza in a much better way, leaving behind a long-lasting impact.
Low Moisture Content
These tomatoes have low moisture content, hence preventing excess liquid from entering the pizza dough. As a result of this, the pizza dough remains crisp and light when it is baked, resulting in a perfect pizza dough.
Tradition
San Marzano tomatoes have achieved a higher status as they have been recognized by the Italian government with a Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) status. This certificate marks its quality and authenticity and is tagged as a staple in the traditional Neapolitan cuisine.
Also, read: How Many Carbs Are Present In Tomatoes?
Pros And Cons Of Using San Marzano Tomatoes
Below we have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of using San Marzano tomatoes:
Pros
- Sweet and rich flavor
- Lower acidic content
- Meaty texture with less water content
- Fewer seeds
- Rich in vitamins A, and C and antioxidants
- Highly versatile and can be used in many dishes
Cons
- More expensive than other varieties
- Readily available in all markets
- Risk of counterfeits
- Presence of calcium chloride
Is There Any Substitute For San Marzano Tomatoes?
In case San Marzano tomatoes are unavailable or you’re looking for an alternative, then you can consider using these as they will provide almost the same meatiness as San Marzano’s:
- Roma Tomatoes
- Canned Tomatoes
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Tomato Paste
- Stewed Tomatoes
Wrapping Up
Now that you have chosen the perfect tomatoes for your Margherita pizza, go ahead and prepare the delicious pizza that is bound to give an unforgettable taste.
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