Diavola pizza, originating from Italy, has a rich history deeply embedded in the country’s culinary tradition. The name “Diavola” translates to “devil” in Italian, reflecting the pizza’s fiery and spicy character. This classic pizza variety is believed to have emerged in the Campania region, where the renowned Neapolitan pizza also originated. Its creation can be traced back to the desire for a pizza with a bold and intense flavor profile, incorporating elements that would tantalize the taste buds.
The flavor profile of Diavola pizza is characterized by its use of spicy ingredients, typically featuring hot chili peppers or pepperoncini. One of the key ingredients contributing to its fiery taste is the addition of spicy salami, such as soppressata or pepperoni, which infuses the pizza with a robust and zesty kick. The combination of the savory cured meat and the heat from the peppers creates a well-balanced, flavorful experience that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their culinary adventures.
Diavola pizza has gained popularity not only in its place of origin but also internationally, thanks to the global appreciation of Italian cuisine. Its bold and spicy profile attracts pizza enthusiasts who seek a departure from milder options. The popularity of Diavola pizza can be witnessed in pizzerias worldwide, where it often holds a distinguished place on the menu, appealing to those with an adventurous palate.
Served fresh out of a wood-fired oven or traditional pizza oven, Diavola pizza showcases a thin, crispy crust that provides the perfect canvas for the bold flavors it harbors. The spicy salami, complemented by the heat of chili peppers, melds with the melted cheese and tomato sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Diavola pizza is often enjoyed on its own or paired with a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of richness. Whether dining in a cozy Italian trattoria or ordering takeout from a local pizzeria, Diavola pizza stands as a testament to the dynamic and diverse world of pizza offerings.
Diavola pizza
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup sliced spicy pepperoni
- ¼ cup sliced hot soppressata
- ¼ cup sliced red bell peppers
- ¼ cup sliced red onions
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Arrange the spicy pepperoni, hot soppressata, red bell peppers, and red onions on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil before serving.
