The debate between Brooklyn style pizza and New York style pizza is a topic of passionate discussion among pizza lovers. While both styles are highly regarded and share some similarities, many argue that Brooklyn style pizza holds the edge for several reasons. Here’s a detailed comparison that highlights why Brooklyn style pizza is considered superior by some enthusiasts.
1. Crust Quality and Texture
Brooklyn Style Pizza:
- Crispiness: Brooklyn style pizza is renowned for its thin, crispy crust. The use of high-gluten flour and the traditional coal-fired brick ovens result in a crust that is perfectly crisp on the outside while maintaining a slight chewiness on the inside.
- Chewiness: The dough’s elasticity, thanks to high-gluten flour, provides a satisfying chew without being overly thick or doughy.
New York Style Pizza:
- Chewiness: New York style pizza also has a thin crust, but it tends to be chewier and sometimes slightly thicker, which can make it feel heavier.
- Less Crisp: The crust of New York style pizza is often less crispy compared to Brooklyn style, especially if it’s not cooked in a coal-fired oven.
2. Ingredient Quality
Brooklyn Style Pizza:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Emphasis on the use of premium ingredients like fresh mozzarella, high-quality tomatoes, and fine olive oil. The quality of these ingredients significantly enhances the overall flavor.
- Simple Yet Flavorful Sauce: The sauce is usually a simple combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of sugar, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
New York Style Pizza:
- Good Ingredients: While New York style pizza uses good ingredients, it often focuses on mass production, which can sometimes compromise the quality slightly.
- Varied Sauce Quality: The sauce can vary greatly from one pizzeria to another, leading to inconsistency in flavor.
3. Cooking Technique
Brooklyn Style Pizza:
- Coal-Fired Brick Ovens: The traditional coal-fired brick ovens used in Brooklyn pizzerias reach very high temperatures, creating a unique char and flavor that’s hard to replicate with other methods.
- Perfect Balance: The high heat cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crust that is both crispy and chewy, with toppings that are perfectly cooked.
New York Style Pizza:
- Gas Ovens: Many New York pizzerias use gas ovens, which don’t reach the same high temperatures as coal-fired ovens, often resulting in a less distinctive crust.
- Longer Cooking Time: The lower cooking temperatures can lead to a longer bake time and a different texture.
4. Flavor Profile
Brooklyn Style Pizza:
- Balanced Flavors: The balance of a slightly sweet and tangy sauce, creamy fresh mozzarella, and a crispy, chewy crust creates a harmonious flavor profile.
- Artisan Approach: The focus on handcrafted techniques and quality ingredients gives Brooklyn style pizza a rich and robust flavor.
New York Style Pizza:
- Varied Flavors: While flavorful, New York style pizza can sometimes have a less consistent flavor profile due to variations in ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Heavier Taste: The slightly thicker crust and different sauce recipes can lead to a heavier taste.
5. Overall Eating Experience
Brooklyn Style Pizza:
- Large, Foldable Slices: Brooklyn style pizza is known for its large, foldable slices, making it easy to eat on the go while maintaining structural integrity.
- Unique Char and Texture: The coal-fired baking method imparts a unique char and flavor that enhances the overall eating experience.
New York Style Pizza:
- Foldable Slices: While New York style pizza also features large, foldable slices, they may lack the distinctive crispiness and char of Brooklyn style pizza.
- Heavier Texture: The slightly thicker crust can make it a bit more filling and less crispy.
Also read : Brooklyn Style Pizza: A Foodie’s Guide
Conclusion
While both Brooklyn style and New York style pizzas have their own loyal fan bases and unique qualities, many argue that Brooklyn style pizza is superior due to its perfect crust balance, high-quality ingredients, traditional coal-fired cooking methods, and overall harmonious flavor profile. The combination of these elements creates a pizza that is not only delicious but also provides a unique and satisfying eating experience.
Whether you prefer the crispiness and artisan quality of Brooklyn style pizza or the classic, chewy texture of New York style, exploring the nuances of each style can be a delightful culinary adventure.
