America's Test Kitchen Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
When it comes to pizza, there are many types and styles to choose from. One popular style is the Chicago thin crust pizza. This pizza is known for its crispy, thin crust and delicious toppings.
What is Chicago Thin Crust Pizza?
Chicago thin crust pizza is a style of pizza that originated in Chicago. Unlike the deep-dish pizza that Chicago is known for, this pizza has a thin, crispy crust. The crust is usually topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings.
What sets Chicago thin crust pizza apart from other types of pizza is its crust. The crust is made with a combination of flour, water, yeast, and oil. The dough is then rolled out thin and baked in a hot oven until crispy.
History of Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
The history of Chicago thin crust pizza dates back to the early 1900s. Italian immigrants in Chicago began making pizza with a thin crust. This style of pizza became popular in the Italian neighborhoods of Chicago.
As the popularity of Chicago thin crust pizza grew, it spread throughout the city. Today, Chicago thin crust pizza is a staple of Chicago cuisine.
Ingredients for Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
The ingredients for Chicago thin crust pizza are simple. The crust is made with flour, water, yeast, and oil. The toppings can vary, but the most common toppings are tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables.
One key ingredient for Chicago thin crust pizza is the cheese. The cheese used is usually a blend of mozzarella and provolone. This gives the pizza a delicious, cheesy flavor.
How to Make Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
While making Chicago thin crust pizza may seem daunting, it is actually quite simple. Here is a recipe to make your own Chicago thin crust pizza:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- 2/3 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water and olive oil to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for a few minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll the dough out into a thin crust and place it on a pizza pan.
- Spread tomato sauce over the crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheese over the sauce.
- Add sliced pepperoni and any other desired toppings.
- Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Where to Find Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
If you are in Chicago, you can find Chicago thin crust pizza at many pizzerias throughout the city. Some popular places to try include Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, and Pequod's Pizza.
If you are not in Chicago, you can still enjoy Chicago thin crust pizza. Many pizzerias across the country offer this style of pizza on their menu.
Conclusion
Chicago thin crust pizza is a delicious style of pizza that has become a staple of Chicago cuisine. With its crispy crust and delicious toppings, it is no wonder why this pizza has become so popular. Whether you are in Chicago or not, be sure to give Chicago thin crust pizza a try!
