The Elements of Pizza: Unlocking the Secrets to World Class Pies at Home

From Portland's own Ken Forkish comes this in-depth look at the art of pizza making. While his claims that you can make a better pizza than the pros might seem like a stretch, with this book and a little practice, you'll be on your way to perfect homemade pizza in no time. Recommended By Ashleigh B., Powells.com

A follow-up to the James Beard and IACP award-winning book Flour Water Salt Yeast, featuring an unprecedented look into the mechanics of pizza-dough making, plus scores of recipes for pizzas in every style: Neapolitan, Roman, American pan pizza, New York-style, creative flat breads, gluten-free pizza, and more.

Ken Forkish is one of the most respected and trusted bread-baking authorities in the world. In The Elements of Pizza, Forkish turns his attention to pizza, offering readers a complete education on the craft of artisanal pizza-making, with techniques and insights from the very best pizzaiolos in Italy and the United States. Forkish's methodical and rigorously tested dough recipes prove that even home bakers can make incredibly flavorful, texturally sublime crusts. And his inspired topping ideas will get you thinking outside of the cheese-and-pepperoni box, opening your eyes to the wide world of delicious, seasonal pizza.

“With The Elements of Pizza, Ken Forkish proves there is no right or wrong style of pizza. The right pizza is whatever you like—and whether you fancy Neapolitan, Roman, New York, or any other style, Ken guides you smoothly through the process. But this is not just a book about crusts and toppings: it is also full of interesting history and fun stories. In fact, this terrific book is itself one of the essential elements of making great pizza at home."  Nancy Silverton, chef/co-owner of the Mozza Restaurant Group

"Ken Forkish is one of the world’s great pie men, so it should be no surprise that The Elements of Pizza is an essential addition to the pizza canon. Forkish’s formidable intellect and knowledge, combined with his can-do spirit, will turn any pizza lover into a pizza maker."  Ed Levine, founder and CEO of Serious Eats

"If there were ever to be a bible for all things pizza—and I mean all things —Ken Forkish has just written it. The detail that went into this book is so vast and exact that after reading it you will simply never have another question about any kind of pizza, from anywhere in the world."  Marc Vetri, author of Mastering Pasta and owner of Vetri

After a twenty-year career in the tech industry, Ken Forkish decided to leave Silicon Valley and corporate America behind to become a baker. He moved to Portland, Oregon, and opened Ken’s Artisan Bakery in 2001, followed by Ken’s Artisan Pizza in 2006 and Trifecta Tavern in 2013. His first book, Flour Water Salt Yeast, won both a James Beard and IACP award.

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