A formulation for creating pizza dough that specifies the use of Gold Medal brand flour as a key ingredient is a popular choice among home and professional bakers. The recipes often detail specific ratios of flour to water, yeast, and other ingredients to achieve a desired texture and flavor profile in the final pizza crust. These instructions can vary greatly depending on the type of pizza intended, from thin and crispy Neapolitan styles to thick and chewy pan pizzas. For instance, a higher hydration level might be employed for a softer crust, while a lower hydration and longer fermentation period can contribute to a more developed flavor.
The reliance on a particular brand of flour stems from its consistent milling process and protein content, which directly impacts gluten development. Strong gluten development is crucial for creating a dough that can be stretched and shaped without tearing and that will yield a desirable chewiness in the finished product. Using a consistent ingredient like this allows bakers to replicate successful results more reliably and understand how variations in other ingredients will affect the outcome. The history of using this specific type of flour in pizza making is rooted in its wide availability and trusted reputation within the baking community, often passed down through generations of cooks.