American Pie My Search For The Perfect Pizza
The History of Pizza
Pizza has been around for centuries, with its origins tracing back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Egyptians. However, it wasn't until the late 1800s in Naples, Italy that pizza became what we know it as today. It was a simple dish made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil, known as the Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Savoy.
It wasn't long before pizza made its way to the United States, brought over by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, pizza is a staple food in America, with countless variations and styles.
New York Style Pizza
New York style pizza is perhaps the most well-known and loved style of pizza. It's characterized by its large, thin slices that are easily foldable. The crust is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and the sauce is typically made with San Marzano tomatoes.
There are countless pizzerias in New York City that serve up delicious slices, but some of the most famous include Di Fara Pizza, Lombardi's, and Joe's Pizza.
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Chicago deep dish pizza is a completely different animal than New York style pizza. It's characterized by its thick, buttery crust that's more similar to a pie crust than a traditional pizza crust. The sauce is on top of the cheese, and it's typically filled with a variety of ingredients.
Some of the most famous deep dish pizzerias in Chicago include Pizzeria Uno, Lou Malnati's, and Giordano's.
Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is the original pizza from Naples, Italy. It's made with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. The crust is thin and crispy, and it's cooked in a wood-fired oven at an extremely high temperature.
There are many pizzerias in the United States that specialize in Neapolitan pizza, including Roberta's in Brooklyn, Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, and Pizzaiolo in Oakland.
California Style Pizza
California style pizza is a newer style of pizza that's characterized by its unusual toppings and thin crust. It's often topped with non-traditional ingredients such as arugula, goat cheese, and figs.
Some of the most well-known pizzerias that serve California style pizza include Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles, Pizzeria Delfina in San Francisco, and Tony's Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer New York style pizza, Chicago deep dish pizza, Neapolitan pizza, or California style pizza, there's no denying that pizza is one of the most beloved foods in America. With countless variations and styles, there's a pizza out there for everyone.