Pizza, the beloved Italian creation, has transcended borders and evolved into a global phenomenon. While we often celebrate the myriad of toppings that grace this delectable dish, it’s time to turn our attention to its foundation – the pizza base. Just as diverse as the toppings, pizza bases around the world offer a tantalizing range of textures and flavours. Join us on a journey across continents as we explore the fascinating world of pizza bases.

1. Neapolitan Pizza (Italy)

We begin our journey at the birthplace of pizza, Naples, Italy. The Neapolitan pizza base is a study in simplicity, made from just four key ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. What sets it apart is its light, airy, and slightly chewy texture. It’s traditionally thin and cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a delicate crust that’s slightly charred and blistered.

2. New York-Style Pizza (USA)

Jumping across the Atlantic, we land in the bustling streets of New York City. The New York-style pizza is characterized by its large, foldable slices and a thin, yet sturdy, hand-tossed crust. It’s often known for its crisp exterior and soft interior, allowing it to be loaded with toppings without becoming soggy. A quintessential slice of ‘the Big Apple.’

3. Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza (USA)

Staying in the United States but heading to the Windy City, we encounter the Chicago deep-dish pizza. This hearty creation boasts a thick, buttery, and flaky crust that’s more like a savoury pie crust than the typical pizza base. It serves as a sturdy vessel for an abundance of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce.

4. Lahmacun (Turkey)

Now, let’s shift our gaze to the Middle East, where Turkey introduces us to Lahmacun. Lahmacun features an oval, thin, and crispy crust, unlike the round pizza bases we’re accustomed to. It’s typically topped with minced meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, tomatoes, and a blend of flavorful spices.

5. Okonomiyaki (Japan)

Our culinary journey detours to Japan, where Okonomiyaki, often referred to as a ‘Japanese savoury pancake,’ serves as an unconventional yet delightful pizza-like base. The batter, made from flour, grated yam, eggs, and shredded cabbage, creates a unique and slightly chewy foundation. It’s adorned with various ingredients, including seafood, meat, and vegetables.

6. Sourdough Pizza (Worldwide)

Sourdough enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Sourdough pizza bases have gained immense popularity worldwide. What makes them special is the use of naturally fermented sourdough starter, which imparts a tangy flavour and a chewy, bubbly texture. These bases are versatile, accommodating a wide range of toppings and flavours.

7. Indian Naan Pizza (India)

In India, where culinary diversity thrives, you’ll find Naan Pizza – a fusion of the beloved Indian bread, Naan, and classic pizza toppings. The Naan base is soft, and slightly chewy, and acts as a canvas for a myriad of flavours, including traditional Indian spices, sauces, and toppings.

8. Tlayuda (Mexico)

Heading south to Mexico, we encounter the Tlayuda – a large, thin, and crispy tortilla-like base made from masa, a type of dough used in Mexican cuisine. Tlayudas are often served with a spread of refried beans, cheese, and a variety of toppings, creating a delightful Mexican pizza-like experience.

As we wrap up our global journey exploring the diverse world of pizza bases, we hope you’re inspired to try these various styles. Each base brings a unique character and cultural twist to the beloved pizza.

At Cross Avenue, where culinary artistry is celebrated, our Neapolitan-style pizza, personally crafted by our renowned Chef Anuj Kapoor, has earned us the honour of being voted Best Italian Restaurant in Noida in 2023 by Restaurant Guru. Join us for a slice of the world on your plate.

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