What is 00 flour? And why is it so essential in Italian cooking?

What is 00 flour exactly? 00 flour, pronounced as "double zero flour," is a finely ground Italian flour that’s beloved for its smooth texture and strong gluten network. This type of flour is milled to a super fine consistency, which categorizes it differently from other types of flour, such as all-purpose or bread flour commonly found in other parts of the world.

What makes 00 flour stand out is its protein content, which strikes a perfect balance necessary for creating the elastic doughs required in Italian cuisine. Typically, the protein content ranges from 10% to 12%, making it ideal for recipes that need a delicate yet durable dough.

Now, why is it so essential in Italian cooking? The magic of 00 flour lies in its versatility. It’s the go-to flour for making anything from heavenly pizzas that boast a crispy crust and chewy center to silky-smooth pastas that hold sauces beautifully. It’s also used in baking delights such as ciabatta, focaccia, and even some pastries.

The fine grind of 00 flour ensures that it absorbs less water, allowing cooks to have more control over the dough’s hydration. This quality is crucial in achieving the texture and elasticity that Italian dishes are renowned for.

The origin of 00 flour and its brief history

The story of 00 flour begins in Italy, a country renowned for its world-class cuisine and high-quality ingredients. The "00" refers to the flour’s texture and milling grade, according to the Italian milling system. This system grades flour from 2 (coarsest texture) to 00 (finest texture), making 00 flour the finest of them all. Its powdery finesse is what makes it a top pick for some of the best chefs around the world.

Historically, this finely milled wheat flour first garnered attention in Italy for its exceptional ability to create the light, airy texture desired in pizzas, pasta, and bread. The origins of 00 flour date back to the early days of milling, when achieving such fine flour was no small feat. Advanced milling techniques developed over centuries allowed millers to refine their processes, leading to the super-fine consistency we know and love today.

This flour made its mark in Italian kitchens by the late 19th to early 20th century, particularly in the Naples region, which is famous for its pizza. Pizzaiolos there discovered that 00 flour not only gave their pizza dough the perfect stretch but also the ideal crispy texture after baking. Since then, its use has become a standard not just in Italy but also in kitchens worldwide, where achieving authentic Italian textures is a must.

How is 00 flour made and what is it made of?

"00" refers to the fineness of the grind, which is classified in Italy and parts of Europe. This flour is milled to a super fine texture, much finer than regular all-purpose flour.

The process begins with selecting the best wheat, we use durum wheat. The flour is then milled very finely. The grading system used for flour in Italy, which includes 0, 00, and even 1 and 2, indicates just how fine the flour is ground. The 00 grade is the finest of all, giving it a silky texture.

This fine milling makes 00 flour particularly great for making pasta and a favorite for pizza dough because it creates a lovely, smooth dough that's easy to work with and cooks up to a perfect combination of crispy and chewy crust. It's really a baker's delight!

The Best 00 Flour - The Delallo Difference

Our 00 Flour, which is finely ground to perfection and boasts an ideal protein content, making it simply the best choice for your culinary creations. Whether you’re kneading a batch of silky smooth pasta or spinning a light and airy pizza crust, our flour makes all the difference.

Why choose DeLallo 00 Flour? It's all about the texture and the taste. Our flour is milled in Italy from only the finest wheat, offering a super fine texture that’s hard to find elsewhere. This means your dough will be exceptionally elastic and easy to work with, yielding delightful results that are both chewy and crispy in all the right places.

Ways to use 00 flour and recipes

00 flour is a staple in Italian kitchens, especially for making some of the best pizzas and pastas you've ever tasted. But its uses go way beyond that.

Perfect Pizza Dough: One of the most popular uses for 00 flour is in making pizza dough. The fine grind allows the dough to stretch thinly without tearing, creating the perfect base for your favorite toppings. Try making a classic Margherita Pizza or this herbaceous Pesto Prosciutto Pizza.

Homemade Pasta: Elevate your pasta night by making your own pasta using 00 flour. It gives the pasta a smooth texture and cooks up beautifully al dente.

Delicate Pastries: 00 flour isn't just for savory dishes; it's also great for pastries. Think delicate, melt-in-your-mouth creations like this Sweet Ricotta Cheesecake.

Fancy Focaccia: Another fantastic way to use 00 flour is in making focaccia. This Italian bread is simple to prepare and can be topped with herbs, sea salt, or any toppings you like. Get creative and try making an Olive Focaccia or a Blueberry Focaccia.

Thickening Agent: Did you know? You can use 00 flour as a thickening agent for sauces and gravies. It's fine texture ensures a smooth, clump-free consistency.

00 Flour: FAQ

Why is 00 flour better for pizza?

00 flour isn’t just any flour – it’s a super fine Italian flour that has been milled to the finest possible texture. This fineness allows it to absorb water much more efficiently, which is a big deal when you’re aiming for a dough that’s easy to stretch but doesn’t tear. This means you can achieve that dreamy, elastic texture that’s just right for twirling into a perfect pizza base.

00 flour also has just the right protein content (12%), which is ideal for making a dough that’s soft yet strong enough to hold its shape and bubble up beautifully in hot ovens. This balance gives you a light, airy crust with those coveted crispy edges, without turning tough or chewy.

Is 00 flour bread flour?

00 flour is actually a super fine Italian flour that's most commonly used for making pasta and pizza crusts. It's ground to a finer texture than most other flours. While it's not typically classified as bread flour, you certainly can use 00 flour to make bread. However, it's important to note that 00 flour has a lower protein content compared to traditional bread flour. Bread flour usually has a higher protein content, which is what gives bread its chewy texture. So, if you decide to use 00 flour for bread, you might notice your bread has a softer texture with a finer crumb. It can still be delicious, just a bit different from what you might expect with traditional bread flour.

Is 00 flour gluten free?

No, 00 Flour is not gluten-free. This type of flour is finely ground wheat flour, and wheat naturally contains gluten. It's often used in recipes for pasta and pizza dough to get that lovely, elastic texture we all love.

If you're avoiding gluten, you'll want to look for alternatives specifically labeled as gluten-free. These might include flours made from rice, almond, coconut, or other gluten-free grains. There are some great options out there that can help you whip up delicious, gluten-free versions of your favorite recipes!

How do I store 00 flour?

Storing 00 flour is super easy and doing it right helps keep it fresh and ready for all your yummy recipes! The best way to keep your 00 flour fresh is by storing it in an airtight container. You can use a plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid, which works wonders in keeping moisture and pests out.

How do I store 00 flour?

Storing 00 flour is super easy and doing it right helps keep it fresh and ready for all your yummy recipes! The best way to keep your 00 flour fresh is by storing it in an airtight container. You can use a plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid, which works wonders in keeping moisture and pests out. Once you’ve got it in an airtight container, place it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight. A pantry or a kitchen cabinet away from the stove or any heat sources is ideal. If you don’t plan to use the flour immediately or you’ve bought in bulk, you might want to consider storing it in the refrigerator or even the freezer. Just make sure it’s sealed well to avoid any fridge smells seeping in. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before you use it — especially for baking — to get the best results.

What is the shelf life of 00 flour?

The shelf life of 00 flour, which is finely ground and perfect for making pasta and pizza dough, typically lasts about 6 months when stored in a cool, dry place. To extend its freshness, you can also keep it in an airtight container or even store it in the freezer, where it can last for up to a year.

What does “tipo” mean?

"Tipo" is a word that can have a few different meanings depending on the context, but generally, it's a Spanish or Italian word that translates to "type" or "kind" in English.

What is the difference between 00 flour and all-purpose flour?

Both types of flour are essential in baking and cooking but serve quite different purposes due to their unique characteristics.

00 Flour: This type of flour is finely ground, giving it an ultra-fine texture that's almost silky. It's commonly used in Italian recipes, particularly for making pizza dough and pasta. The "00" refers to the fineness of the grind, and it generally has a lower gluten content than all-purpose flour. This makes it perfect for creating tender, stretchy doughs that cook up with a delicate bite.

All-Purpose Flour: As the name suggests, all-purpose flour is designed to be versatile and is used in a wide range of recipes, from baking bread, cakes, and cookies to thickening sauces. It has a higher gluten content than 00 flour, which gives it a good structure and makes it suitable for a variety of cooking and baking needs. The texture is a bit coarser compared to 00 flour, but it's incredibly reliable for most culinary projects.

In summary, if you’re aiming for that perfect homemade pasta or a crispy pizza crust, 00 flour is your go-to. But for everyday baking and cooking that demands more flexibility, all-purpose flour is usually sufficient. Either way, both play a crucial role in the kitchen.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of 00 flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for 00 flour! While 00 flour has a finer texture and slightly different protein content, all-purpose flour is a great alternative and widely accessible. It works well in most recipes, from baking pizzas to making pasta. Just keep in mind, your dough might feel a bit different in texture, but it should still turn out delicious!

What is the difference between 00 flour and semolina flour?

Both are popular types of flour used in Italian cooking, but they have some distinct characteristics and uses.

00 Flour: This type of flour is milled to be super fine, which gives it a silky texture. The "00" refers to the fineness of the milling in Italy and it's often made from soft wheat. It has a lower protein content compared to semolina, typically around 9-12%. This makes 00 flour excellent for making smooth, elastic doughs that are perfect for pasta like spaghetti, linguini, and also for pizza dough and pastries. It creates a tender final product, which is ideal for dishes where a delicate texture is desired.

Semolina Flour: On the other hand, semolina flour is made from a different type of wheat called durum wheat, which is much harder. The flour is coarser compared to 00 flour, almost grainy. It's high in gluten and protein, which makes it ideal for pasta that needs to hold its shape well, like penne, fusilli, and macaroni. Semolina produces a more robust and chewy texture, and it's also commonly used in bread and pizza bases for a slightly heartier texture.

In summary, if you're aiming for delicate and soft pastries or thin, stretchy pasta, 00 flour is your best bet. If it's chewy pastas and sturdy breads you’re after, semolina flour would be more suitable.

Where can I buy DeLallo 00 Flour?

Order DeLallo 00 Flour online or find it at most major supermarkets across the country.