If you’re a pizza lover, you’re probably already familiar with the classic Neapolitan-style pizza, with its thin crust and tomato sauce. But have you ever tried deep-dish pizza? This deliciously decadent pizza style has its own holiday: National Deep Dish Pizza Day, celebrated on April 5th each year. In this article, we’ll explore the history of this mouth-watering dish, share some recipes for you to try at home, and delve into some fun facts you might not know about deep-dish pizza.
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History of Deep Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza was first created in Chicago in the 1940s. The story goes that a pizzeria owner named Ike Sewell was looking to create a pizza that was different from the Neapolitan-style pizzas that were popular at the time. He came up with a recipe that used a deep pan to create a thick, crispy crust, and filled it with plenty of cheese and toppings. The result was a pizza that was unlike anything else out there, and it quickly became a hit in Chicago.
How to Make Deep Dish Pizza
If you’re feeling inspired to try making your own deep-dish pizza at home, here’s a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Toppings of your choice (e.g. sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, and yeast. Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Grease a deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to the pan, pressing it up the sides to create a deep dish.
- Layer the mozzarella cheese on top of the dough, followed by the tomato sauce and your desired toppings.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top of the toppings.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Fun Facts about Deep Dish Pizza
- Deep dish pizza is sometimes called “Chicago-style pizza” or “pan pizza.”
- The crust of a deep-dish pizza is often made with cornmeal, which gives it a crispy texture.
- Deep-dish pizza is typically served in slices, rather than the round pies that Neapolitan pizza is served in.
- Some Chicagoans consider deep-dish pizza to be a casserole, rather than a pizza.
- There are many variations of deep dish pizza, including stuffed pizza (which has a layer of dough on top of the toppings), and Sicilian-style pizza (which has a thick, rectangular crust).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between deep-dish pizza and regular pizza?
Deep dish pizza has a thick, doughy crust that is filled with cheese and toppings, whereas regular pizza has a thin crust with toppings on top.
What are some popular toppings for deep-dish pizza?
Popular toppings for deep-dish pizza include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and extra cheese.
Can I make deep-dish pizza without a deep-dish pizza pan?
While it’s best to use a deep dish pizza pan for the perfect crust, you can also use a regular cake or baking dish if you don’t have a deep dish pizza pan.
Is deep-dish pizza healthier than regular pizza?
Due to its thicker crust and higher cheese content, deep-dish pizza is generally higher in calories and fat than regular pizza. However, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Where can I find the best deep-dish pizza? The best deep-dish pizza can be found in Chicago, where it originated. Some famous pizzerias in the city include Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s East.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die-hard deep-dish pizza fan or you’re just learning about this delicious style of pizza for the first time, National Deep Dish Pizza Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a slice (or two!). From its origins in Chicago to its variations around the world, there’s no denying that deep-dish pizza has become a beloved dish for many pizza lovers.
So why not try making your own deep-dish pizza at home, using the recipe we’ve provided? Or, if you’re lucky enough to live in Chicago, treat yourself to a slice from one of the city’s many famous pizzerias. No matter how you choose to celebrate National Deep Dish Pizza Day, we hope you enjoy this delicious and indulgent style of pizza.