Are you a pizza lover looking for a new culinary adventure? Look no further than the windy city’s iconic dish: Chicago-style pizza. This deep-dish delicacy is a unique twist on traditional pizza, with a thick, buttery crust and a mouthwatering blend of toppings and cheese. But Chicago-style pizza is more than just a meal – it’s a cultural institution that dates back to the 1940s. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the history, ingredients, and preparation of Chicago-style pizza.
History of Chicago-Style Pizza
The history of Chicago-style pizza dates back to the 1940s when Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo opened Pizzeria Uno, which is considered the birthplace of Chicago-style pizza. Sewell and Riccardo wanted to create a pizza that was unique to Chicago, different from the traditional thin-crust pizza. They came up with a recipe that used a thick, buttery crust and a generous amount of cheese and toppings. The pizza was baked in a deep dish, which gave it a crispy crust and a soft, doughy center.
Ingredients Used in Chicago-Style Pizza
The ingredients used in Chicago-style pizza are similar to those used in traditional pizza, but there are a few key differences. The crust of Chicago-style pizza is made with high-gluten flour, giving it a chewy texture. The dough is mixed with oil and butter, giving it a buttery flavor and a crispy crust. The sauce is made with crushed tomatoes, which are seasoned with herbs and spices to give it a tangy flavor. The cheese used in Chicago-style pizza is usually mozzarella, but some places also add provolone, cheddar, or parmesan. The toppings used in Chicago-style pizza are endless, but some popular ones include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.
Preparation of Chicago-Style Pizza
The preparation of Chicago-style pizza is different from traditional pizza. The dough is pressed into a deep-dish pan, which is then coated with a layer of cornmeal. The cheese is then added to the bottom of the crust, followed by the toppings and the sauce. The Chicago-style pizza is then baked in a hot oven for about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the pizza. The result is a crispy crust, a soft, doughy center, and a delicious blend of flavors.
Types of Chicago-Style Pizza
There are two types of Chicago-style pizza: the deep-dish pizza and the Chicago stuffed pizza. The deep-dish pizza is the original Chicago-style pizza, which is made with a thick, buttery crust, and a generous amount of cheese and toppings. The Chicago stuffed pizza is similar to the deep-dish pizza, but it has an additional layer of dough on top of the toppings, which is then covered with sauce. The Chicago stuffed pizza is thicker than the deep-dish pizza, and it takes longer to bake.
Final Thoughts
Chicago-style pizza is a gastronomic masterpiece that has captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza enthusiasts worldwide. Its thick, flaky crust, generous toppings, and unique taste make it a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the culinary delights of the windy city. Whether you prefer the classic deep dish or the Chicago stuffed pizza, this iconic dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a lasting memory of your time in Chicago. So, the next time you’re in town, be sure to indulge in this beloved cultural institution and experience the delicious flavors that have made Chicago-style pizza a legend in its own right.
Enjoy some delicious Chicago stuffed pizza from Doreen’s Pizzeria. We are a pizzeria that offers mouthwatering pizza options for delivery, carry-out, and catering services. We take pride in serving high-quality pizza made with the freshest ingredients. Order now!