Pizza is arguably the world’s most popular food, but where you eat it can be dramatically different. Italian and American pizza, in particular, are two very different experiences. Each of these pizzas has its own history, flavor, and culture. In this article, we’ll discuss the deliciousness of pizza and how American pizza has evolved to be so different from traditional Italian-style ones.
Origins of Both
Italian pizza has historical roots, especially in Naples, Italy, where the first Neapolitan pizza was made in the 18th century. It’s known for having a beautiful traditional style and simplicity. Italians don’t consider pizza merely a commodity; instead, foods are selected based on quality, not quantity. The freshness of ingredients on the pizza is considered the highest priority!
American pizza itself evolved as the Italian immigrants brought their recipes to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, American culture evolved pizza into something more delicious, individualized, and mass-produced. Rather than focusing on the dish for its ingredients and quality, it’s most used for taste and fast preparation.
Topping Differences
Italian pizzas are minimal when it comes to adding toppings. A classic Margherita can contain nothing more than tomato, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. Even gourmet pizzas have a few toppings to balance and complement one another. Overall, toppings are not consumed for indulgence but more so to turn this dish into a work of art.
American pizzas are renowned for excess toppings and combinations like pepperoni and sausage, to pineapple and barbecue chicken. Toppings are thick and stacked high, creating a fuller, more filling meal. This pizza is made for deliciousness to feed the masses rather than a tasteful and traditional dish.
Sauce and Cheese
Italian pizzas typically include raw crushed tomatoes like San Marzano and fresh mozzarella. The sauce is raw and thin to allow the taste of the tomatoes not to be overpowered. It’s all about selecting fresh and quality ingredients to make your own delicious sauce for an Italian-inspired pizza.
American pizzas, on the other hand, include cooked and seasoned tomato sauces with the addition of sugar, garlic, and herbs. Cheese can be low-moisture mozzarella, but at times mixed with cheddar, provolone, or another cheese for stretchy stringiness. Usually, most pizzas add a large amount of cheese to increase their flavor and texture even more.
Visit Bricco in Boston, MA
For those looking to try delicious pizzas in Boston, MA, be sure to visit Bricco today! They have a delicious menu and a wide array of pizzas to choose from. Their fresh ingredients will blow you away and make you want even more! Be sure to call or reserve a table online now.