Discovering Authentic Roman Pizza with the Foodie Sisters
Eating traditional Roman pizza in Rome is a must-do experience, but there are a few things you should know before you take your first bite of pizza romana. Fortunately, Valeria and Benedetta are here to guide you through the what, where, and how of authentic Roman pizza in the latest episode of the Foodie Sisters series. Watch the video and read on to learn more about Rome’s delicious signature pizza.
What is Pizza Romana?
Although pizza originated in Naples, Roman-style pizza, or pizza romana, differs significantly from its Neapolitan cousin. Roman pizza features a thin, crispy crust made from a simple dough of flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is rolled out paper-thin with a rolling pin, topped to the edges, and then cooked in a wood-fired oven until it achieves a crispy, slightly charred finish. On Roman pizza menus, you’ll often find the selection divided into pizze bianche (without tomato sauce) and pizze rosse (with tomato sauce). Some popular toppings to try include funghi (mushrooms), capricciosa (a mix of prosciutto, mushrooms, artichokes, olives, and egg), fiori di zucca e alici (zucchini flowers and anchovies), and the classic margherita.
Where to Eat Pizza Romana?
Unlike pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), which is sold by weight and eaten on the go, pizza romana is meant to be savored in a sit-down setting. Look for a good pizzeria with a forno a legna (wood-fired oven) to ensure you’re getting authentic Roman pizza. Beware of tourist traps that may serve frozen or microwaved pizzas. If you’re unsure where to go, check out our list of favorite pizza restaurants in Rome, all offering genuine Roman pizza.
How to Eat Pizza Romana?
In Italy, each person at the table typically orders their own pizza. Your pizza will arrive at the table fresh from the oven and unsliced. To eat it like a local, cut it into slices yourself, pick up a slice with your hands, fold it over, and enjoy! In Rome, it’s common to start with a few fried antipasti such as supplì (fried rice balls) or fiori di zucca (stuffed zucchini flowers), or even a simple focaccia to stave off hunger while waiting for the main event. While you might think wine is the best accompaniment, Romans often prefer to sip beer with their pizza, as the cold, refreshing bubbles help cleanse the palate between bites.
After savoring delicious Roman pizza in Rome, why not learn to make your own? Join our rooftop cooking class in Rome, and you’ll be able to bring the taste of authentic pizza romana to your own kitchen. Your family and friends will be forever grateful!
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