Calzone, a delicious and savory dish derived from Italian cuisine, is a popular food item enjoyed by people all over the world. This baked or fried dish is composed of folded pizza dough filled with various ingredients, including ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, vegetables, meat, and other delicious toppings. The origins of calzones can be traced back to Naples, Italy, where it was traditionally served as a street food snack.
Despite its widespread popularity, there is a lot of debate surrounding what calzone is classified as. Some consider it to be a type of pizza due to its similarity in appearance and ingredients, while others argue that it should be considered a type of turnover due to its folded dough and filling. In this article, we’ll explore the various arguments and opinions surrounding the classification of calzone and attempt to determine once and for all what this delicious dish should be labeled as.
The Basics of Calzone: Definition and Origin
Calzone is a delicious Italian dish that is often served as a popular alternative to traditional pizza. The word “calzone” means “trouser” or “pant leg” in Italian, which perfectly describes the shape of this unique dish. At its core, a calzone is essentially a baked turnover that is typically filled with a variety of different ingredients, including cheese, meat, vegetables, and sauce.
While the origins of calzone are somewhat unclear, many historians believe that the dish first emerged in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century. It is believed that calzone was inspired by an older dish known as “empanada,” which originated in Spain and was brought to Italy by Spanish settlers. Over time, calzone became a popular street food in Italy and eventually spread around the world. Today, it is a staple of Italian cuisine and can be found in virtually any Italian restaurant or pizzeria.
Is Calzone a Pizza or Something Else Entirely?
Calzone is a popular Italian food that has been enjoyed by many for generations. However, there has been a long-standing debate on whether calzone can be classified as a type of pizza or if it is something else entirely. While calzone and pizza have many similarities, there are also key differences that set them apart.
Calzone is often described as a folded pizza, with the filling enclosed inside the dough. It typically contains similar ingredients to pizza, such as tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings like meat or vegetables. However, the notable difference is that calzone is typically served as a single serving dish, unlike pizza which can be sliced and shared amongst a group. Therefore, while calzone may share similarities with pizza, it is considered to be its own type of dish due to its unique preparation and presentation.
Calzone vs. Stromboli: What’s the Difference?
Calzone and Stromboli are two Italian dishes often confused with each other. Both are made from pizza dough and baked in an oven, but they have distinct differences that set them apart.
Calzone is shaped like a turnover or a half-moon. It has a thin and crispy crust with the filling inside, typically consisting of cheese, sauce, and meat or vegetables. The filling ingredients are similar to what you would find on a pizza. On the other hand, Stromboli is rolled like a jellyroll or a pharmaceutical capsule. It has a thicker crust, and the filling is added to the top of the dough before it is rolled and sealed. Stromboli is typically filled with cold cuts, cheese, and vegetables.
In summary, while both dishes originate from Italy and share similar ingredients, their differences lie in their shapes and fillings. Knowing the difference between the two can help you choose the right dish to satisfy your cravings.
Varieties of Calzone: Meat, Vegetable, Cheese, and More
Calzone, an Italian dish, is a folded pizza that is filled with various ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and cheese. It is a versatile dish that can have a wide range of fillings, making it perfect for any type of appetite. Some of the most popular varieties of calzone include meat, vegetable, cheese, and more.
Meat calzones are stuffed with various types of meat, such as ham, sausage, pepperoni, and chicken. These fillings offer a savory taste that is great for those who are in the mood for something hearty. Vegetable calzones are filled with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, and more. These fillings provide a healthier option for those who are trying to maintain a balanced diet. Cheese calzones are filled with a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. These fillings offer a cheesy and savory taste that is perfect for cheese lovers. Overall, there are a plethora of options when it comes to filling a calzone, making this dish an ideal option for anyone looking for something delicious.
Calzone Around the World: Global Influences on the Dish
Calzones may have originated in Italy, but they have evolved to become a global dish. In North America, calzones are often made with pizza dough and are stuffed with various pizza toppings. In Australia, traditional calzones are filled with cheese, tomato, ham, and mushroom, but they also come in vegetarian and vegan options.
In Brazil, calzones are known as “pastelão fechado” and are commonly filled with beef, cheese, and/or chicken. In India, calzones go by the name “foldover” and can be found stuffed with paneer or other Indian ingredients. Calzones are a versatile and adaptable dish that can be customized to suit any culture’s taste preferences, resulting in unique and exciting flavor combinations.
Making Calzone at Home: Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Pocket
Making calzone at home can be a fun and rewarding experience for any food lover. While the process may seem intimidating, with the right tips and tricks, anyone can create the perfect pocket of deliciousness. The first step is to make sure you have the right dough. While pre-made dough is readily available, making your own homemade dough can add to the overall flavor and texture of the calzone.
Once you have your dough, choosing the right fillings is key. Be sure to choose ingredients that have a low moisture content to prevent your calzone from becoming soggy. Additionally, pre-cooking any meats or vegetables will ensure that your calzone cooks evenly and that all the flavors meld together perfectly. Finally, when shaping your calzone, be sure to crimp the edges tightly closed to prevent any filling from leaking out while cooking. With these tips and tricks, anyone can make a perfect homemade calzone.
Best Restaurants to Try Calzone: Regional Favorites and Notable Variations
Regional variations of calzones exist in Italy, where the pizza-like dish originated. In Naples, a calzone is commonly filled with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, salami, and tomato sauce. Genoa has its version, which is filled with spinach, ricotta cheese, and hard-boiled eggs. Other variations include the Sicilian calzone, which is typically made with anchovies, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and capers.
In the United States, many Italian-American restaurants serve calzones, often with a variety of fillings such as vegetables, meat, and cheese. Some notable restaurants to try calzone in the US include the famous Lombardi’s Pizza in New York City, where their calzones are known for their crispy crust and generous filling. On the west coast, California Pizza Kitchen offers several calzone options, including their popular BBQ Chicken. Out of the Pizza Basket in Wisconsin is also well known for their calzones, which are large and filled to the brim with ingredients.
Verdict
In summary, a calzone is essentially a folded pizza, but it has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from its open-faced cousin. While it is often thought of as a meal or snack on its own, it can also be paired with a salad or other favorite side dish to create a more balanced meal. Whether you prefer yours stuffed with meat, veggies, cheese, or a combination of all three, there’s no denying that a well-made calzone can be a delicious and satisfying treat.
So, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal on-the-go or a fun and interactive meal idea for a family gathering, a calzone is sure to please. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and tasty fillings, it’s no wonder that this popular dish has been enjoyed for generations. So, next time you’re in the mood for a pizza with a twist, why not give a calzone a try and discover why it has become a beloved classic in its own right?