Discover the History, Differences, and Deliciousness of Chicago Pizza
Chicago Pizza is a legendary dish that has captured the hearts and tastes of pizza lovers all over the world.
Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants settled in the city and started to create their version of pizza.
However, it was not until the 1940s that the first deep-dish pizza was created, thanks to the innovation of a man named Ike Sewell.
The Founder
Ike Sewell was the founder of Pizzeria Uno, which is credited with creating the first Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.
Sewell wanted to create a pizza that was different from the thin and crispy Neapolitan-style pizza that was popular at the time.
He wanted a pizza that was hearty, filling, and loaded with toppings, so he created a deep-dish pizza with a thick, buttery crust that could hold all of the ingredients.
Chicago Pizza: A Slice of History
Chicago style quickly became a hit with locals and visitors alike, and Pizzeria Uno became a destination for foodies from all over the world.
Over the years, other restaurants in the city started to create their versions of deep-dish pizza, each with its unique twist.
Today, Chicago pizza is a beloved dish that is synonymous with the city itself.
Italian Pizza vs. Chicago Pizza
The biggest difference between Chicago Pizza and normal pizza is the crust.
Chicago Pizza has a thick, buttery crust that is more like a pie crust than a traditional pizza crust.
The pizza is then loaded with toppings, including sauce, cheese, and other ingredients like sausage, pepperoni, and vegetables.
The result is a pizza that is more like a meal than a snack.
So Delicious…
This pizza is delicious because it is made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of love.
The crust is made with butter and cornmeal, which gives it a rich, crunchy texture.
The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweetness and flavor.
And the toppings are always fresh and flavorful, making each bite a true delight.
You Can Make It Too…
Making Chicago pizza at home is easier than you might think. Let’s do it:
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet of active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup warm water
For the filling:
- 1 pound shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Your choice of toppings, such as sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the melted butter and warm water, and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased deep-dish pizza pan, and press it down and up the sides of the pan to create a thick crust.
4. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1-2 hours.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the crust.
7. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the tomato mixture over the cheese.
8. Add your choice of toppings on top of the tomato sauce.
9. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade Chicago-style deep-dish pizza!
The Classics!
Many great restaurants in Chicago serve delicious deep-dish pizza.
Some of the most famous include Pizzeria Uno, Lou Malnati‘s, and Giordano’s.
Each restaurant has its unique take on the dish, so be sure to try them all and find your favorite.
Accompanying this Meal
Chicago Pizza pairs well with a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, and soda.
If you want to keep it traditional, pair your pizza with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.
For a refreshing option, try pairing your pizza with a soda or sparkling water.
A Healthy Chicago Pizza Meal
While Chicago pizza is delicious, it is not the healthiest meal option.
The thick crust, cheese, and meat toppings can add up in calories and fat.
However, you can make some modifications to make it a bit healthier.
Opt for vegetable toppings instead of meat, and go light on the cheese.
You can also make a thin-crust version of Chicago pizza, which will be lower in calories and fat.
Dig into the Deep-Dish Deliciousness of Chicago Pizza
Chicago Pizza is a unique and delicious dish that has captured the hearts of pizza lovers around the world. Its thick, buttery crust and generous toppings make it a meal in itself.
Whether you’re visiting Chicago or making it at home, be sure to savor every bite of this deep-dish delight.