Pizza has been a beloved dish for centuries, but there’s something truly special about brick oven pizza. The crispy yet chewy crust, the perfect balance of toppings, and the rich, smoky flavor make it stand out from any other style of pizza. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or searching for “pizza near me in Deptford,” learning the art of brick oven cooking can take your pizza experience to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore what brick oven pizza is, how to master the craft, and why Johnny Longhots is a name synonymous with quality pizza.
What is Brick Oven Pizza?
Brick oven pizza is a style of pizza cooked in a brick oven, conventionally fired by wood or gas. The ovens become incredibly hot—typically above 800°F—and cook the pizza quickly and at a light but crispy crust. The high heat caramelizes the dough’s sugars and creates a typical charred taste, which is almost impossible to achieve with traditional ovens.
Key Features of Brick Oven Pizza
- High Heat Cooking – Bakes at 700–900°F in a mere 90 seconds to 3 minutes.
- Crispy, Charred Crust – Traditional smoky flavor and slightly blistered crust.
- Even Heat Distribution – Bricks retain and radiate heat evenly for perfect baking.
- Minimal Oil Usage – Balances natural flavors without greasy mouths.
- Authentic Taste – Nostalgia for classic Italian pizza-making methods.
Mastering the Art of Brick Oven Cooking
Preparing a delicious brick oven pizza is an art and requires skill, patience, and quality ingredients. Below are the steps required to master this skill.
1. Selecting the Right Dough
The foundation of a good pizza is the dough. For brick oven pizza, you want to have a high-hydration dough with long fermentation. It helps to develop flavor and get a nice balance of crisp and chew.
Chief Ingredients:
- Flour: Strong flour (like Tipo 00) for elasticity.
- Water: Ideal hydration level (typically 65-70%).
- Yeast: Slow proofing (24-48 hours) creates flavor.
- Salt: Adds flavor and increases gluten strength.
- Olive Oil: Optional, but adds richness and color.
2. Refining the Sauce
A great pizza sauce must complement, not overpower, the crust and toppings. Johnny’s Pizza employs its signature sauce, made from San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
3. Choosing the Best Cheese
Mozzarella is the typical cheese for brick oven pizza, but not all mozzarella is created equal. Employ fresh whole-milk mozzarella for a creamy, melty texture. Other great cheese options include:
- Parmesan – Sharp, nutty taste.
- Pecorino Romano – Salty, strong, great for finishing.
- Provolone – Provides smokiness.
- Ricotta – White pizzas’ creamy texture.
4. Selecting the Proper Toppings
The beauty of brick oven pizza is that it can coax the best out of simple ingredients. Keep toppings to a minimum to prevent sogginess and allow the heat to crisp the dough.
Classic Topping Combinations:
- Margherita – Olive oil, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
- Pepperoni Lover’s – Pepperoni, tomato sauce, and mozzarella.
- Veggie Delight – Spinach, roasted peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
- BBQ Chicken – Grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, and red onions.
5. Perfecting the Cooking Process
The brick oven takes center stage here. To achieve the best results:
- Preheat the oven to maximum heat for a minimum of one hour.
- Use the pizza peel to add and flip the pizza for even cooking.
- Monitor cooking time – Pizza can cook in 90 seconds to 3 minutes!
- Let it rest before slicing to allow the flavors to settle.
Why Johnny Longhots is a Must-Try for Brick Oven Pizza
If you’re searching for “pizza near me,” look no further than Johnny Longhots. Known for its authentic brick oven pizzas, Johnny’s uses the highest-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to bring an authentic taste to every slice.
What Makes Johnny Longhots Special?
- Authentic Brick Oven Experience – True to New York-style pizza-making.
- Fresh Ingredients – Locally sourced, top-tier produce and cheeses.
- Handmade Dough – Aged to perfection for a deep, rich flavor.
- Signature Recipes – Unique flavors that stand out from the crowd.
- Great Customer Reviews – A go-to pizza spot for locals.
If you’re craving a slice of the best brick oven pizza in town, Johnny’s is where to go!
The Best Pizza Near Me in Deptford
For anyone craving delicious pizza, there are many options—but not all are created equal. Johnny Longhots is unique in its commitment to traditional methods, fresh ingredients, and mouthwatering flavors. Whether dining in or taking out, enjoy a pizza experience second to none.
Conclusion
There is beauty in creating brick oven pizza, and it involves passion, patience, and accuracy. From getting the dough correct to choosing the right toppings, every step matters in creating an unforgettable pizza.
If you’re in the Deptford area and looking for Johnny’s Pizza, don’t miss the chance to taste the magic of brick oven cooking. With high heat, fresh ingredients, and an old-world approach, brick oven pizza remains the ultimate way to enjoy this beloved dish.
So, next time you’re searching for the best pizza near you in Deptford, head over to Johnny Longhots—where quality meets tradition, one delicious slice at a time.