Few pizzerias in the U.S. carry the L'Association Verace Pizza Napolentana (VPN) certification that identifies authentic Neapolitan-style pizza dating back to the 16th century. There are only 430 in the world with such distinction. And now, a Seattle-based brand – Pizzeria 22 – joins the exclusive list.
According to the West Seattle Herald, Pizzeria 22 was founded by Cary Kemp. It will receive its VPN this year.
An authentic Neapolitan-style pizza is cooked quickly on a hot wood-fired stove and features tomatoes, mozzarella and basil on flatbread.
The VPN designation was established in 1984 to "protect tradition" and differentiate authentic pizzerias from those that use the term inappropriately.
To earn the VPN certification, Kemp's pizza had to pass strict guidelines for ingredients and procedures. For example, San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius, are used for the sauce, Italian mozzarellas are required, and very specific flour types and rising strategies are used for the dough.
Pizzeria 22 opened in June 2011.
Read more about pizza sauce and pizza toppings.
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