If you’re a pizza lover, you’ve probably heard of Chicago-style deep dish and New York-style thin crust. But have you ever heard of Cleveland-style pizza? It’s a lesser-known style of pizza that is gaining popularity in the Midwest and beyond.
Cleveland-style pizza is characterized by a thick, chewy crust that is cooked in a shallow pan with cheese and toppings piled high. It’s often cut into small squares, making it perfect for sharing with a group. But what sets Cleveland-style pizza apart is the use of unique toppings, like cottage cheese and hot sauce, that give it a distinct flavor profile. So, if you’re looking to try something new in the pizza world, give Cleveland-style a chance!
What Is Cleveland Style Pizza?
Cleveland Style Pizza is a type of pizza that originated in the city of Cleveland, Ohio. This pizza is unique in its thick and chewy crust, which is often baked in a shallow pan with toppings piled high. It has a distinct taste and texture that sets it apart from other styles of pizza and has gained a loyal following among pizza enthusiasts.
History of Cleveland Style Pizza
Cleveland Style Pizza has its roots in the city’s Italian-American community. The pizza first came to prominence in the 1940s when a local pizzeria began serving a thicker, square-cut version of the popular New York-style pizza. Over time, Cleveland Style Pizza evolved and became its own distinct style, with local pizzerias adding their own unique twists to the recipe.
Today, Cleveland Style Pizza remains a beloved local specialty, with many pizzerias throughout the city serving their own versions of the classic pie.
What Makes Cleveland Style Pizza Unique?
One of the defining characteristics of Cleveland Style Pizza is its thick, chewy crust. The crust is often made with a blend of high-gluten and all-purpose flour, which gives it a sturdy texture that holds up well to the weight of the toppings.
Another unique aspect of Cleveland Style Pizza is its square shape. The pizza is typically baked in a shallow pan, which gives it a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bottom and edges. The toppings are then piled on top, often in generous quantities, creating a hearty and flavorful pizza that’s perfect for sharing.
How Is Cleveland Style Pizza Made?
To make Cleveland Style Pizza, the dough is first prepared and left to rise for several hours. Once the dough has risen, it’s pressed into a shallow pan and left to rise again. The crust is then par-baked until it’s just starting to turn golden-brown.
Next, the toppings are added. Cleveland Style Pizza is often made with a layer of cheese on the bottom, followed by other toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. The pizza is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden-brown and crispy.
Cleveland Style Pizza Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of Cleveland Style Pizza is its hearty and filling nature. The thick crust and generous toppings make it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Another benefit of Cleveland Style Pizza is its versatility. The thick crust and generous toppings can accommodate a wide variety of flavors and ingredients, making it a great choice for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.
Cleveland Style Pizza vs. Other Styles of Pizza
Compared to other styles of pizza, Cleveland Style Pizza is known for its thick and chewy crust, square shape, and generous toppings. New York-style pizza, for example, has a thinner and crispier crust, while Chicago-style pizza is known for its deep-dish crust and heavy toppings.
Cleveland Style Pizza also differs from other styles in its preparation. The par-baking of the crust before adding the toppings gives it a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from other pizzas.
Conclusion
Cleveland Style Pizza is a beloved local specialty that’s known for its thick, chewy crust, generous toppings, and square shape. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, and its versatility makes it a great choice for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re a lifelong Cleveland resident or just passing through, be sure to try a slice of this iconic pizza the next time you’re in town.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Cleveland style pizza. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us.
What is Cleveland style pizza?
Cleveland style pizza is a unique style of pizza that originated in Cleveland, Ohio. It is characterized by its square shape, thick crust, and toppings that are placed under the cheese. The pizza is baked in a square pan, which gives it its distinctive shape and allows the crust to cook evenly.
The toppings on Cleveland style pizza are usually simple, with a focus on quality ingredients. Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions. The cheese used is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone.
How is Cleveland style pizza different from other styles of pizza?
Cleveland style pizza is different from other styles of pizza in a few key ways. First, it has a square shape and a thick crust, which sets it apart from traditional round pizzas with thin crusts. Second, the toppings on Cleveland style pizza are placed under the cheese, which allows them to cook more evenly and gives the pizza a unique flavor. Finally, the cheese used on Cleveland style pizza is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone, which gives it a distinctive taste.
Overall, Cleveland style pizza is a unique and delicious style of pizza that is worth trying if you haven’t already.
Where can I find Cleveland style pizza?
Cleveland style pizza is most commonly found in the Cleveland area, but it has gained popularity in other parts of the country as well. There are several pizza places in the Cleveland area that specialize in Cleveland style pizza, including Angelo’s Pizza and Geraci’s Restaurant. If you’re not in the Cleveland area, you may be able to find Cleveland style pizza at a local pizza place that specializes in regional styles of pizza.
If you’re unable to find Cleveland style pizza in your area, you can also try making it at home. There are several recipes available online that will allow you to recreate this delicious style of pizza in your own kitchen.
What are some tips for making Cleveland style pizza at home?
If you’re interested in making Cleveland style pizza at home, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the perfect pizza. First, make sure you use a square pan that is at least 2 inches deep. This will help you achieve the thick crust that is characteristic of Cleveland style pizza.
Second, be sure to put your toppings under the cheese. This will help them cook evenly and give your pizza a unique flavor. Finally, use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese to give your pizza its distinctive taste.
What are some popular toppings for Cleveland style pizza?
There are several toppings that are commonly used on Cleveland style pizza. Pepperoni and sausage are two of the most popular toppings, but other common toppings include mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. Some pizza places also offer specialty toppings like banana peppers, bacon, or even pierogi.
When it comes to Cleveland style pizza, the focus is on quality ingredients and simplicity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings, but remember that less is often more when it comes to this style of pizza.
In conclusion, Cleveland style pizza is a unique and delicious take on the classic dish. With a thick and chewy crust, tangy sauce, and generous toppings, it’s easy to see why it has become a local favorite. Its origins may be hotly debated, but there’s no denying the pride that Clevelanders have in their pizza.
If you’ve never tried Cleveland style pizza before, it’s definitely worth seeking out. Whether you prefer classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage or more unconventional options like pierogi and corned beef, there’s a flavor combination to suit every palate.
Overall, Cleveland style pizza is a testament to the city’s culinary creativity and passion for good food. So the next time you’re in town, be sure to grab a slice (or a whole pie) and see what all the fuss is about. You won’t be disappointed!
