Mastunicola Pizza

Step into the heart of Naples with the iconic Mastunicola, a timeless classic that pays homage to the traditional pizza bianca. Born as a thrifty Neapolitan creation, Mastunicola was initially a tomato-free delight, adorned with fragrant basil, a touch of cheese, and lard. The name likely finds its roots in the Neapolitan dialect, where “vasunicola” translates to basil, perfectly encapsulating the essence of this pizza. In my version, I elevate the flavors by adding thinly sliced lardo, salt-cured pork fat, after the pizza comes out of the oven. Although uncooked, the lardo melts slightly, infusing the pizza with rich, bacony notes. Discover the true taste of Napoli with the Mastunicola, a delightful symphony of simple yet luxurious flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Naples.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (9-ounce/255-gram) ball Napoletana Dough
• Flour, for dusting
• 5 fresh basil leaves, torn in half
• 3 ounces (85 grams) mozzarella di bufala, well drained
• Fine sea salt
• Extra virgin olive oil in a spouted container, for drizzling
• 6 paper-thin strips (3 grams each) lardo

PREPARATIONS:

1. Prepare a wood-fired oven or ready your home oven as instructed.
2. Follow the instructions on this page for Wood-Fired Oven Baking or Home-Oven Broiler Method to prepare the dough.
3. Arrange the pieces of basil, shiny side up, over the dough.
4. Pinch the cheese into quarter-size pieces and place them, skin side down, on the pizza, using some of the cheese to cover part of each piece of basil to prevent burning.
5. Sprinkle the pizza with salt. Then, working from the center outward, drizzle a spiral of extra virgin olive oil (about 1½ teaspoons) over the surface.
6. Bake the pizza as directed for Wood-Fired Oven Baking or Home-Oven Broiler Method.
7. Transfer the pizza to a cutting board.
8. Arrange the lardo strips from the center toward the edges, spacing them evenly like the spokes on a wheel.
9. Cut between the strips into 6 wedges and drizzle with a bit more oil.

YIELD:

• One 12-inch Mastunicola pizza; approximately 6 slices.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• The lardo is added after the pizza comes out of the oven.

TIPS:

• Use high-quality mozzarella di bufala from Italy for the best flavor and texture.
• For a delightful bacony richness, add thinly sliced lardo after baking.

As the legend of Naples, the Mastunicola captures the essence of the city’s rich culinary heritage, where simple yet exquisite flavors reign supreme. A testament to the ingenuity of Neapolitan cuisine, this pizza bianca celebrates basil, a staple herb in Naples, infusing the pizza with vibrant aromas and flavors. The ingenious addition of mozzarella di bufala adds a creamy, indulgent touch to the pizza, elevating it to a true Neapolitan delight.

To further enhance the flavors, my version of Mastunicola welcomes thinly sliced lardo, salt-cured pork fat, after the pizza emerges from the oven. While uncooked, the lardo melts slightly, infusing the pizza with delicate, bacony notes that delight the palate. Each bite takes you on a journey through the streets of Naples, where the aroma of fresh basil and the allure of rich lardo merge to create an unforgettable symphony of flavors.

When crafting Mastunicola, I invite you to embrace the true spirit of Naples—simplicity and authenticity. Allow the flavors to transport you to the vibrant piazzas and bustling markets, where the art of pizza-making has been passed down through generations.

Savor each slice of this delightful pizza, relishing the skillful blend of basil, cheese, and lardo—a trio that celebrates the heart and soul of Neapolitan cuisine. Let the Mastunicola be a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary culinary experiences are found in the simplest of dishes.

As you embark on this culinary adventure, you become a part of the rich history that defines Naples as a gastronomic haven. The Mastunicola invites you to celebrate tradition, embracing the flavors that have enchanted locals and travelers alike for centuries.

So, indulge in the Mastunicola, a timeless Neapolitan masterpiece that honors the simplicity and complexity of true Italian flavors. Each bite carries the legacy of Napoli’s culinary roots, a legacy that continues to thrive in every artisanal pizzeria and wood-fired oven. Let this classic pizza be a source of joy and inspiration, reminding you of the profound impact that tradition and innovation have on the world of gastronomy.