Difference Between New York Style Pizza And Chicago Pizza
When it comes to pizza, two American cities that stand out are New York and Chicago. These cities have become synonymous with their signature pizza styles, and often spark debate among pizza enthusiasts. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza.
Crust
The most noticeable difference between New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza is the crust. New York Style Pizza has a thin, crispy crust that is slightly chewy. The crust is usually hand-tossed and cooked in a hot oven, which gives it a charred, smoky flavor. In contrast, Chicago Pizza has a deep-dish crust that is thick and flaky. The crust is more like a pastry and is often filled with cheese and toppings.
Sauce
The sauce is an essential component of any pizza, and New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza have different sauce styles. New York Style Pizza has a simple tomato sauce that is light and tangy. The sauce is usually made with San Marzano tomatoes and seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Chicago Pizza, on the other hand, has a chunky tomato sauce that is sweeter and more robust. The sauce is often made with crushed tomatoes and seasoned with oregano and other herbs.
Cheese
Cheese is another crucial component of pizza, and New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza have different cheese styles. New York Style Pizza has a thin layer of mozzarella cheese that is slightly melted and bubbly. The cheese is usually spread evenly over the pizza, allowing the toppings to shine. In contrast, Chicago Pizza has a thick layer of cheese that is melted and gooey. The cheese is often mixed with other ingredients, such as ricotta or Parmesan, and is placed on top of the toppings.
Toppings
The toppings are where New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza really differ. New York Style Pizza has a wide variety of toppings, and the focus is on the quality of the ingredients. Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. In contrast, Chicago Pizza has fewer toppings, and the focus is on the quantity. The toppings are often layered on top of each other, with sausage, pepperoni, onions, and green peppers being common choices.
Serving Size
The serving size of New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza is also different. A slice of New York Style Pizza is large and triangular, and you can easily fold it in half to eat. A typical New York Style Pizza has eight slices, and one slice is usually enough for a single serving. In contrast, Chicago Pizza is much thicker and denser, and one slice is often enough to feed two or three people. A typical Chicago Pizza has four to six slices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York Style Pizza and Chicago Pizza are two iconic pizza styles that have their distinct characteristics. New York Style Pizza is thin and crispy, with a light tomato sauce and a thin layer of melted cheese. Chicago Pizza, on the other hand, is thick and flaky, with a chunky tomato sauce and a thick layer of melted cheese. Both styles have their unique flavor and texture, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. So, which pizza style do you prefer?