Indians have enjoyed eating pizzas for a long time now. This very love for the dish has led many to dish out authentic pizzas for the discerning Indian palate.
Further pushing its growing popularity, India has just got a win for its culinary aspirations as an Indian cafe has become the first Indian pizzeria to receive the official certificate for authentic Neapolitan pizza.
For the uninitiated, the Neapolitan pizza is made with 00 flour, water, salt, yeast, and traditionally topped with crushed or sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a little extra virgin oil.
The recognised certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, known worldwide as AVPN, has been given to Si Nonnas in late October. The pizzeria, present across India, has been dishing out the flavours of Naples in India since 2022, starting with its first outlet in Mumbai at Kamala Mills in Lower Parel.
The certification, which was given by Antonio Pace, president of AVPN, confirms that the Indian pizzeria`s sourdough pizzas adhere to every international standard set by AVPN, including the precise method of dough preparation, fermentation, ingredient quality, oven specifications and baking technique. Each pizza is crafted using a twenty-four hour sourdough fermentation process that ensures a light, airy and flavourful crust. The recipe finds its inspiration in a serendipitous encounter with Nonna Galliano’s original mother dough in Naples. |
Pace, who travelled all the way from Naples in Italy to Mumbai to hand over the certificate, shares, “Their pursuit of excellence and their respect for Neapolitan tradition in a market as diverse and fast growing as India demonstrate the universal appeal of our heritage. Their achievement represents a remarkable step in the global story of true Neapolitan sourdough pizza.”
Speaking to the media, Ayush Jatia, founder of Si Nonna’s, said, “Earning the AVPN certification is a landmark moment not only for Si Nonna’s but also for the evolution of pizza culture in India. It reaffirms our promise of bringing true Neapolitan flavours and techniques to Indian diners. Being the first pizzeria in India to achieve this honour is incredibly humbling and fills us with immense pride. This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of our team, and it motivates us to continue sharing the joy of authentic Italian sourdough pizza with every guest who walks through our doors.”
