When it comes to pizza, different cities in the United States have their own unique styles and specialties. New York City is famous for its thin crust and foldable slices, while California is known for its gourmet toppings and non-traditional flavor combinations. However, there’s one city that stands out from the rest when it comes to deep-dish pizza: Chicago. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of real Chicago-style pizza, exploring its history, characteristics, and what sets it apart from other pizza styles.
A Brief History of Chicago-Style Pizza
Chicago-style pizza, also known as deep-dish pizza, has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s. The story goes that Pizzeria Uno’s founder, Ike Sewell, and his partner, Ric Riccardo, developed the recipe for deep-dish pizza in 1943. They created a thick crust, deep pan pizza with a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, which quickly became a hit with locals and visitors alike.
However, it’s worth noting that there’s another Chicago pizzeria, Lou Malnati’s, that claims to have invented the deep-dish pizza. According to their story, Lou Malnati’s founder, Rudy Malnati Sr., developed the recipe for deep-dish pizza in the 1950s. Regardless of who actually invented it, one thing is certain: Chicago-style pizza has become a staple of the city’s culinary scene.
Characteristics of Real Chicago-Style Pizza
So, what makes a pizza truly Chicago-style? Here are some key characteristics to look out for:
The Crust
The crust is perhaps the most distinctive feature of Chicago-style pizza. It’s thick, flaky, and formed into a deep pan, which allows for a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables. The crust is typically made with a mixture of wheat and corn flour, water, and cornmeal, which gives it a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft interior.
The Cheese
Chicago-style pizza is known for its thick layer of cheese, which is typically a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. The cheese is spread out in a thick layer, covering the entire surface of the pizza, and is often mixed with other ingredients like meats and vegetables.
The Toppings
While the toppings may vary depending on the pizzeria, traditional Chicago-style pizza toppings include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. The toppings are typically spread out in a symmetrical pattern, with the sausage and pepperoni slices arranged in a circular pattern.
The Pan
Chicago-style pizza is baked in a deep-dish pan, which is typically round and made of thick steel or cast iron. The pan is coated with a layer of oil or butter, which helps to create a crispy crust.
Types of Chicago-Style Pizza
While traditional Chicago-style pizza is the most well-known, there are several variations that have emerged over the years. Here are a few examples:
Deep-Dish Pizza
This is the original Chicago-style pizza, characterized by a thick crust, deep pan, and thick layer of cheese and toppings.
Stuffed Pizza
Stuffed pizza is a variation of deep-dish pizza that features a thick layer of dough on top of the filling, which is typically made with cheese, meats, and vegetables. The dough is then topped with a thin layer of tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Pan Pizza
Pan pizza is a variation of Chicago-style pizza that features a thinner crust and a more rectangular shape. The crust is formed into a pan and topped with a layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables.
What Sets Chicago-Style Pizza Apart
So, what sets Chicago-style pizza apart from other pizza styles? Here are a few key factors:
Thick Crust
The thick crust is perhaps the most distinctive feature of Chicago-style pizza. It’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a perfect base for the thick layer of cheese and toppings.
Deep Pan
The deep pan is another key feature of Chicago-style pizza. It allows for a thick layer of cheese and toppings, and helps to create a crispy crust.
Reversed Order
Unlike other pizza styles, Chicago-style pizza features a reversed order of ingredients. The thick layer of cheese is on the bottom, followed by the meats and vegetables, and finally the tomato sauce on top.
Where to Find Real Chicago-Style Pizza
If you’re looking to try real Chicago-style pizza, here are a few pizzerias to check out:
| Pizzeria | Address |
|---|---|
| Pizzeria Uno | 29 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
| Lou Malnati’s | 225 S State St, Chicago, IL 60604 |
| Pequod’s Pizza | 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
Conclusion
Chicago-style pizza is a unique and delicious style of pizza that has become a staple of the city’s culinary scene. With its thick crust, deep pan, and thick layer of cheese and toppings, it’s a must-try for any pizza lover. Whether you’re a native Chicagoan or just visiting the city, be sure to check out one of the many pizzerias that serve up real Chicago-style pizza.
In conclusion, real Chicago-style pizza is a culinary experience that is not to be missed. With its rich history, unique characteristics, and delicious flavor, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves pizza. So, the next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to stop by one of the many pizzerias that serve up this delicious style of pizza. Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Chicago-style pizza?
Chicago-style pizza is a type of deep-dish pizza that originated in the city of Chicago. It is characterized by a thick crust, thick layers of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and a thick tomato sauce on top. The crust is typically made with a mixture of flour, water, and cornmeal, and is formed into a thick pan and allowed to rise before being topped and baked.
The result is a hearty, filling pizza that is more like a casserole than a traditional thin-crust pizza. Chicago-style pizza is often served in a deep-dish pan and is typically cut into small squares, known as “squares” or “tavern-style” cuts. This style of pizza is a staple of Chicago cuisine and is often associated with the city’s rich culinary history.
What is the difference between deep-dish and stuffed pizza?
Deep-dish and stuffed pizza are two types of Chicago-style pizza that are often confused with one another. Deep-dish pizza is characterized by a thick crust and a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, topped with a thick tomato sauce. Stuffed pizza, on the other hand, has a thicker crust and a layer of dough on top of the filling, which is then topped with another layer of cheese and tomato sauce.
The main difference between the two is the addition of the top layer of dough in stuffed pizza, which creates a “pocket” of filling inside the crust. Deep-dish pizza, on the other hand, has a more open-faced design, with the filling visible on top of the crust. Both styles are popular in Chicago, but deep-dish is more widely known and associated with the city.
What is the best way to eat Chicago-style pizza?
The best way to eat Chicago-style pizza is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few traditional methods that are popular among locals. One way is to eat it with a fork and knife, which is necessary due to the thick crust and hearty toppings. Another way is to fold the squares in half and eat them like a sandwich, which is a popular method among Chicagoans.
Either way, it’s best to eat Chicago-style pizza slowly and mindfully, savoring the flavors and textures of the different ingredients. The thick crust and rich toppings can be overwhelming if eaten too quickly, so it’s best to take small bites and enjoy the experience.
Can I make Chicago-style pizza at home?
Yes, it is possible to make Chicago-style pizza at home, but it can be a bit challenging due to the thick crust and specific cooking method required. To make a traditional Chicago-style pizza, you will need a deep-dish pizza pan and a recipe that includes a thick crust, thick layers of cheese and toppings, and a thick tomato sauce.
To achieve the signature crust, you will need to use a mixture of flour, water, and cornmeal, and allow the dough to rise before topping and baking. You will also need to cook the pizza in a slow oven (around 425°F) for a long period of time (around 25-35 minutes) to achieve the crispy crust and melted cheese.
What are some popular toppings for Chicago-style pizza?
Some popular toppings for Chicago-style pizza include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. The classic combination is sausage, mushroom, and onion, which is a staple at many Chicago pizzerias. Other popular toppings include bacon, ham, and olives, which add a salty, savory flavor to the pizza.
In addition to these traditional toppings, many modern Chicago pizzerias are now offering more unique and gourmet toppings, such as prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze. These toppings add a new level of flavor and sophistication to the classic Chicago-style pizza.
Is Chicago-style pizza healthy?
Chicago-style pizza is not typically considered a healthy food option due to its high calorie and fat content. The thick crust and rich toppings can add up to a lot of calories, and the high amount of cheese and meat can make it a less-than-ideal choice for those looking for a low-fat meal.
However, it is possible to make a healthier version of Chicago-style pizza by using whole-wheat crust, reducing the amount of cheese and meat, and adding more vegetables and lean protein sources. Additionally, many Chicago pizzerias are now offering healthier options, such as gluten-free crust and vegetarian toppings.
Where can I find authentic Chicago-style pizza?
Authentic Chicago-style pizza can be found at many pizzerias throughout the city of Chicago. Some popular spots include Lou Malnati’s, Pequod’s, and Gino’s East, which have been serving up classic Chicago-style pizza for decades. These pizzerias use traditional recipes and cooking methods to create an authentic Chicago-style pizza experience.
In addition to these classic spots, many other pizzerias throughout the city are now offering their own versions of Chicago-style pizza, using unique toppings and cooking methods to create a modern twist on the classic dish.