Different Types of Pizza for you to Know

The origins of pizza can be traced to Italy. Over the years, the dish has undergone several transformations and become a favorite amongst people around the world. There are numerous types of pizzas and if you are looking to start a pizza joint, then it is helpful to learn about the different kinds. You can refer to the following details to learn more on the same.

1. Neapolitan Pizza

Termed as the ‘original pizza’, the Neapolitan pizza’s history dates to Naples in Italy during the 18th century. During earlier times, this pizza type consisted of flatbread and topped with cheese, tomatoes, garlic, and oil; it was extremely affordable.

The variants of Neapolitan pizza are Pizza Marinara, Pizza Margherita, and Pizza Margherita extra. It has a thin crust and contains minimal toppings that can include oregano, basil leaves, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, and tomatoes.

 For its preparation, you need a wood-burning oven that should be preheated between 800 -1000 degrees Fahrenheit. Give the pizza around 90 minutes to cook at this high temperature before it is ready.

2. Chicago Pizza

Chicago pizza, also known as deep-dish pizza, was invented, as the name suggests, in Chicago. It was during the 1900’s that immigrants from Italy were looking to prepare something similar to Neapolitan pizza and they tried to thicken the crust and add the ingredients in reverse order which entailed placing mozzarella slices on the dough and then, the veggies, meats and pounded tomatoes.

In the Chicago-based pizzas, you will find the toppings beneath the tomato sauce layer. The usual ingredients in this pizza-type are onions, peppers, mushrooms, pounded beef, mushrooms, sausages, pepperoni, and green peppers. Parmesan cheese can also be sprinkled atop the tomato sauce.

When removing the Chicago pizza from the pan, you need to squirt some oil for crispier dough. Thereafter, it takes around 30-35 minutes to bake these pizzas in the oven because they contain additional toppings.

3. New York Style Pizza

In the United States, the New York style pizza has gained popularity amongst the people. There are both similarities and differences between Neapolitan and New York pizzas. Similar to a Neapolitan pizza, the crust of these pizzas is thin, but also sufficiently thick so the slice can be folded in half lengthwise. As a result, utensils are not required for relishing the pizza.

They are baked in deck ovens, or wood-burning or coal-burning ones, for their crispy texture. You have a choice in toppings such as anchovies, sausage, mushrooms, and pepperoni. It is also normal to have condiments like powdered garlic, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese and oregano on the pizza slices.

4. Sicilian Pizza

These types of pizzas are square-cut and have a thick crust and spongier texture as compared to other types of pizzas. In Sicily, the toppings include anchovies, tomato sauce, herbs, onions, and layered with breadcrumbs on top. The Sicilian pizza in America contains a mix of mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce.

For the rich flavor of your Sicilian pizza, you must line your pan with olive oil. Additionally, give it about 20 minutes or so to bake when the oven is heated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Greek Pizza

Greek pizza was invented by Greek immigrants who came to America and became acquainted with Italian pizza. Where these pizzas are concerned, the crust is more puffy and chewy than the thin-crusted pizzas. Also, it is not as thick as Sicilian pizza. The tomato paste is tangy and oregano-flavored. You can choose to top the pizza with a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. You can also add red onions, feta cheese and black olives for an authentic Greek taste.

Normally, this pizza is baked in a rounded pan that is lined with olive oil. This helps the dough to fry when it is being baked.

6. California Pizza

California pizza contains unusual ingredients; you can also use Alfredo or barbeque sauce in place of tomato sauce. Depending on the time that the pizza is baked, the crust is thin or thick.

7. Tomato Pie

Italian tomato pie pizza is square-cut and derived from Sicilian pizza. Also, it contains a thick crust and has a sweet and tangy flavored tomato sauce on the top. You can serve it at room temperature and also, choose to top the pizza with Parmesan cheese and tomato sauce. Other toppings that you can add are mozzarella slices, sausage, and grounded beef.

When baking, the crust has to be put in the oven and coated with tomato sauce and water to prevent its drying. After the dough is baked, you should add the sauce and place in the oven again at 550 degrees Fahrenheit for around 15 minutes.

8. Alternative Pizza Types

There are varied ways of preparing pizzas. You can opt to add the traditional toppings or be experimental in your choices. Other crust options such as the stuffed crust varieties are, also, worth a try.

Conclusion

Preparing pizzas at home is easy and also, make for a yummy treat for your family members. You can add toppings as per your choice. However, if you want the authentic taste of the different types of pizzas, then you can visit the specialty pizza joints to satiate your palate.