This culinary attribute refers back to the attribute recognizing or blistering that seems on the crust of sure pizzas, notably these cooked at excessive temperatures. These darkish, barely charred spots, harking back to a leopard’s coat, are a results of fast caramelization and Maillard response on the dough’s floor throughout baking. A well-executed instance presents a crust with a mix of pale, ethereal dough punctuated by sharply outlined darkish spots.
The presence of this recognizing is usually thought-about an indicator of superior dough high quality, correct fermentation, and high-heat oven mastery. It contributes to a extra complicated taste profile, including notes of smokiness and delicate bitterness that steadiness the sweetness of the sauce and different toppings. Traditionally, this impact has develop into a extremely sought-after aesthetic in Neapolitan-style pizza making, signifying authenticity and craftsmanship inside the culinary custom.
