What To Know
- 00 flour, often referred to as “double zero flour” or “Tipo 00 flour,” is a finely ground, high-quality wheat flour commonly used in Italian and Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta making.
- 00 flour contains a higher gluten content compared to other flour types, such as all-purpose or bread flour.
- 00 flour has a higher gluten content and a finer grind than all-purpose flour, resulting in a more elastic and silky dough.
00 flour, often referred to as “double zero flour” or “Tipo 00 flour,” is a finely ground, high-quality wheat flour commonly used in Italian and Neapolitan-style pizza and pasta making. It is the most refined type of flour available, boasting a high gluten content and a soft, silky texture. In Australia, 00 flour is becoming increasingly popular among professional chefs and home bakers seeking to elevate their culinary creations.
Key Characteristics of 00 Flour
1. High Gluten Content:
00 flour contains a higher gluten content compared to other flour types, such as all-purpose or bread flour. Gluten is a protein that forms a network when mixed with water, providing structure and elasticity to doughs.
2. Fine Grind:
00 flour is finely ground, resulting in a smooth and powdery texture. This fine grind allows for easier incorporation into doughs and helps create a more consistent and pliable dough.
3. Soft and Silky Texture:
The fine grind and high gluten content contribute to the soft and silky texture of 00 flour. This texture makes it ideal for creating thin, crispy pizza crusts and tender, flavorful pasta.
Benefits of Using 00 Flour
1. Exceptional Pizza Crusts:
The high gluten content and fine grind of 00 flour make it the perfect choice for creating authentic Italian-style pizza crusts. It produces a crust that is thin, crispy, and has a slight chewiness.
2. Tender and Flavorful Pasta:
00 flour is also ideal for making pasta. The gluten network it forms creates a pasta that is tender on the inside and firm on the outside. It also enhances the flavor and aroma of the pasta dough.
3. Improved Dough Handling:
The soft and silky texture of 00 flour makes it easy to handle and shape doughs. It creates a smooth and cohesive dough that is less likely to tear or stick.
Where to Find 00 Flour in Australia
00 flour is becoming more widely available in Australia. It can be found in specialty food stores, Italian delis, and online retailers specializing in baking ingredients.
Using 00 Flour in Your Recipes
When using 00 flour, it is important to adjust your recipes accordingly. Due to its higher gluten content, you may need to reduce the amount of water or liquid in your dough. Start by using a slightly smaller amount of liquid and gradually add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Popular Brands of 00 Flour in Australia
- Caputo “00” Pizzeria Flour
- Molino Grassi “00” Flour
- Giusto’s “00” Flour
- Divella “00” Flour
- La Molisana “00” Flour
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the difference between 00 flour and all-purpose flour?
A: 00 flour has a higher gluten content and a finer grind than all-purpose flour, resulting in a more elastic and silky dough.
Q: Can I substitute 00 flour for all-purpose flour in all recipes?
A: No, it is not recommended to substitute 00 flour for all-purpose flour in all recipes. The higher gluten content of 00 flour can make doughs too dense and chewy if not adjusted accordingly.
Q: How do I store 00 flour?
A: 00 flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should be used within 6-8 months of opening the package to maintain its quality.
