Calzone is a popular Italian dish that is often referred to as a “folded pizza.” The dish is essentially a baked turnover made with pizza dough that is filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, vegetables, and sauce. However, some people question whether or not calzone is simply pizza dough folded in half, or if it is a distinct and separate dish.
There are certainly similarities between pizza and calzone, but there are also some key differences. For example, calzone is typically served as a single serving, whereas pizza is often shared with a group. Additionally, the fillings used in calzone can be different from those used on pizza, and the way the two dishes are prepared and baked can also vary. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the question of whether or not calzone is just pizza dough, and explore the subtle differences between the two dishes.
What is a Calzone?
Calzone is a type of Italian dish that is quite similar to pizza. The word “calzone” actually means “trouser” or “stocking” in Italian, which could refer to the shape of the dish. A calzone is made by folding a pizza dough in half and filling it with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, vegetables, sauces, and spices.
Calzones are often baked until crispy and golden brown, just like pizza. The ingredients inside the calzone usually melt and blend together, creating a flavorful mixture that is savory and delicious. Because of its portable shape, the calzone is often considered a great meal to take on the go. However, whether or not a calzone is just a pizza dough is still up for discussion, as there are differences in the dough and the way they are made.
What Differentiates Calzone from Pizza?
Calzone and pizza share a lot of similarities, but they are not the same thing. The most obvious difference is the shape – calzone is typically folded over like a turnover, while pizza is flat. The dough used for calzone is also usually thicker and denser than pizza dough, which allows it to hold up better to the heavy, savory fillings. The filling itself is a key differentiation – while pizza toppings are scattered over the top, calzone fillings are contained within the dough. This makes calzone more portable and easier to eat on-the-go.
Another key difference is that the sauce is typically contained within the filling of a calzone, while it’s spread over the crust of a pizza. Additionally, calzone is usually served with a marinara sauce on the side for dipping. While both calzone and pizza are delicious comfort foods, they offer different experiences to diners. Calzone feels more like a substantial, hearty meal, while pizza can be enjoyed as a lighter, more snack-like food. Ultimately, whether you prefer calzone to pizza comes down to your personal taste and how you like your dough and fillings.
Is Calzone Healthier than Pizza?
Calzone and pizza both have one thing in common, and that is their major ingredient – pizza dough. But the filling in calzone makes all the difference when it comes to calorie count. Compared to pizza, calzone tends to have less sauce, less cheese, and sometimes even less meat. However, the added ingredients like vegetables, meats, and more cheese can sometimes make it as unhealthy or even less healthy than pizza.
While calzone generally has less sauce and cheese, it can still be quite calorific when it comes to fillings. The calorie count also depends on the size, the extra ingredients, and the cooking method. To make calzone a healthier option, choose more vegetables as fillings, swap the meat with lean proteins or legumes, and use a smaller portion size. Overall, calzone can be marginally healthier than pizza if you keep a check on the filling and the portion size.
How to Make a Perfect Calzone at Home?
Making a perfect calzone at home requires some attention to the details and a bit of practice. First, you need a good pizza dough recipe as the base. The dough shouldn’t be too thick as it might make the calzone too heavy and difficult to handle. On the other hand, if the dough is too thin, the filling might leak out.
Once you have the dough ready, roll it out into a large circle. Then, add the filling on one half of the circle, leaving some space on the edges for folding and sealing. The key to a perfect calzone is not to overstuff it with too much filling. Otherwise, it might burst open while baking. Finally, fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with your fingertips or a fork. Remember to brush the calzone with some olive oil and bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. With these tips, you can easily make a delicious and satisfying calzone at home.
The Best Calzone Recipes that You Should Try
If you are a true calzone lover, you must experiment with different flavor combinations and delicious fillings. The best calzone recipes usually involve some of your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, pepperoni, sausage, and cheese. You can also add some veggies to your filling, including bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Incorporating herbs and seasonings like garlic, oregano, and basil will also elevate the taste of the calzone.
Some unique calzone recipe ideas include barbecue chicken calzone, buffalo chicken calzone, and even breakfast calzone with eggs, bacon, and cheese. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses, including mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. Regardless of your flavor preference, the best calzone recipes are a testament to the versatility of this classic dish, offering endless possibilities for ingredients and flavors that can be enjoyed any time of day.
Calzone Variations Across Italy
Calzone is a traditional Italian dish that is believed to have originated in Naples. While the classic calzone is made with pizza dough and filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and ham, the recipe and ingredients can vary vastly across different regions of Italy.
In Rome, for instance, you will find what’s known as “pizza fritta,” which is essentially a deep-fried calzone that is typically filled with ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, and ham. In the Puglia region, they have a similar dish called “panzerotti,” which is smaller than the calzone, fried instead of baked, and filled with only tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Many other regions have their own unique versions of calzone that reflect the local cuisine and ingredients. So, while the foundation of calzone may be pizza dough, the variations across Italy demonstrate that it’s so much more than just that.
Where to Find the Best Calzones Around the World
When it comes to finding the best calzones around the world, there are countless options to choose from. Perhaps one of the most popular places to find delicious calzones is in Italy, the birthplace of this delectable dish. Italian calzones are often filled with savory meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and they are characterized by their thin and crispy crust.
However, calzones can also be found in many other countries, including the United States, where they have gained immense popularity. From small mom-and-pop pizzerias to high-end Italian restaurants, you can find a wide range of delicious calzones. Some of the best places to look for calzones include major cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, as well as smaller cities and towns across the country. No matter where you go, you’re sure to find a delicious calzone that satisfies your cravings for this classic Italian dish.
Final Verdict
To conclude, a calzone is not just pizza dough, but a delicious and unique Italian treat. While it shares similarities with its pizza counterpart, the dough is folded over to create a pocket filled with a variety of delectable ingredients. The filling can range from traditional pizza toppings to savory meats and vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Ultimately, whether you prefer pizza or calzone is a matter of personal taste. However, for those seeking a handheld alternative to pizza that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction, calzones are definitely worth trying. So the next time you find yourself debating between pizza or calzone, give the calzone a chance and discover the deliciousness of this Italian favorite.