Pizza is a universally beloved food that comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Originating in Italy, this dish has evolved and spread to almost every corner of the world. From thick and cheesy to thin and crispy, from traditional toppings to unique combinations, there’s a type of pizza for everyone. In this article, we will explore the different types of pizza around the world, each with its own unique characteristics and history.
1. Neapolitan Pizza
We cannot talk about pizza without mentioning its birthplace, Naples. Neapolitan pizza is the most traditional type, with a thin and chewy crust, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. This pizza is typically cooked in a wood-fired oven, which gives it a smoky flavor.
2. New York Style Pizza
New York style pizza, also known as “NYC pizza”, is a staple in the Big Apple. It features a large, thin, and foldable crust, with a generous amount of tomato sauce and cheese. It is often sold in large slices, making it the perfect on-the-go food.
3. Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Chicago deep dish pizza. This pizza is known for its thick and buttery crust, which serves as a vessel for loads of toppings and layers of cheese. It is baked in a deep dish pan, hence the name, and can sometimes take up to 45 minutes to cook.
4. Detroit Style Pizza
Similar to the Chicago deep dish, Detroit style pizza has a thick and crispy crust with a chewy interior. The dough is usually stretched in a rectangular pan and topped with sauce, cheese, and toppings all the way to the edges, creating a caramelized crust. This pizza is becoming increasingly popular, especially in the United States.
5. California Style Pizza
California style pizza is known for its unconventional toppings and thin, crispy crust. Popular toppings include arugula, avocado, and a variety of vegetables and fruits. This type of pizza reflects the healthy and adventurous lifestyle of Californians.
6. Hawaiian Pizza
One of the most controversial types of pizza, Hawaiian pizza features a combination of sweet and savory flavors with its toppings of ham and pineapple. It was invented in Canada and has sparked debates among pizza enthusiasts worldwide.
7. Turkish Pide
Pide, also known as Turkish pizza, is a boat-shaped flatbread with a crispy crust and a variety of toppings such as minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. It is often served with a cracked egg on top, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch dish.
8. Japanese Okonomiyaki Pizza
Okonomiyaki pizza combines two beloved dishes from Japan, pizza, and okonomiyaki. This savory pancake-like dish is topped with cabbage, meat or seafood, and a variety of sauces such as mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce. It is a popular street food in Japan and has gained popularity in other parts of the world.
9. Indian Naan Pizza
Naan pizza is a fusion of Italian and Indian cuisine. A thin and crispy naan bread serves as the crust, topped with a variety of Indian-inspired toppings such as tandoori chicken, paneer, and curry sauce. It’s a delicious way to combine two different culinary cultures.
10. Bulgarian Banitsa Pizza
Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian dish made with filo dough, eggs, and cheese. Banitsa pizza is a modern twist on this dish, with a crispy filo crust and a variety of toppings such as spinach, feta cheese, and tomatoes. It’s a delicious combination of Italian and Bulgarian cuisine.
In conclusion, pizza is a versatile dish that has evolved and adapted to different cultures and tastes around the world. From the traditional Neapolitan pizza to more unique and creative variations, there’s a type of pizza for everyone to enjoy. So the next time you order a pizza, why not try a new type and expand your pizza horizons? Who knows, you might find a new favorite.