Yes, you can use 00 flour for pizza dough, and it is actually a popular choice among many pizza enthusiasts and professional pizzaiolos. "00" refers to the type of flour used, and it is an Italian flour that is finely milled, resulting in a soft and powdery texture.
The main reasons why 00 flour is favored for pizza dough are:
Fine Texture: 00 flour has a very fine texture, which makes it easier to work with and creates a smoother dough. The fine grind results in a more delicate and elastic dough, which is essential for achieving that classic, thin-crust, Neapolitan-style pizza.
High Protein Content: While 00 flour is finely ground, it still contains a relatively high amount of protein, which is essential for creating gluten strands in the dough. Gluten provides the structure and elasticity necessary to stretch the dough without tearing it and helps create a light and airy crust.
Ideal Hydration: 00 flour absorbs water well, allowing you to achieve the right hydration level in the pizza dough. Proper hydration is crucial for obtaining a soft and tender crumb in the final crust.
Quick Cooking Time: Due to its characteristics, pizza made with 00 flour tends to cook relatively quickly in high-temperature ovens, resulting in a beautifully crisp and bubbly crust.
However, it's worth noting that you can also use other types of flour for pizza dough, such as all-purpose flour or bread flour. Each flour type will yield a slightly different texture and flavor in the final crust. If you want to replicate the traditional Neapolitan pizza experience, using 00 flour is an excellent choice. Otherwise, experimenting with different flours can lead to unique and enjoyable pizza crusts.