Are European Pizza Purists Horrified by American Thick-Crust Pizza?

The misconception that European pizza purists are horrified by American thick-crust pizza is more widespread than one might think. This notion is not limited to pizza purists but often extends to a broader spectrum of pizza enthusiasts who have not embraced the thick-crust style. However, it's important to delve deeper into the nuances of pizza-making traditions and explore the origins of thick-crust pizza.

Understanding the Origin of Thick-Crust Pizza

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that thick-crust pizza is not a recent innovation. In fact, the idea that it was always made that way in Italy is a common misconception. The people in Naples, the birthplace of pizza, have recently established guidelines for what they consider the "correct" pizza. However, this only reflects a particular snapshot in time and does not necessarily set a universal standard.

The Concept of Pizza Purists

So, what does it mean to be a pizza purist? This term is often used to describe individuals who hold a particular style or standard of pizza as the ideal. The purist might believe that the version of pizza endorsed by the Neapolitans is the purest form. However, this concept is inherently problematic since calling oneself a purist implies a superior stance over those who deviate from this ideal.

Identifying the Benchmark

The notion of a benchmark is often driven by a desire to claim superiority over alternatives. When someone claims that their version of pizza is the purest, they are essentially saying that everyone who doesn't follow their standard is not pure. This is a circular and tautological argument and does not provide any objective basis for determining the purity of pizza.

Regional Variations and Pizza Styles

The pizza landscape varies significantly from region to region. While the purists in Italy have a particular preferred style, American thick-crust pizza has its own distinct characteristics. For example, the iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza, with its thick, golden crust and generous toppings, has become a food icon in parts of the United States. The popularity of this style is not confined to a small area but extends to a significant portion of the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, European pizza purists, or pizza enthusiasts in general, may not be as horrified by American thick-crust pizza as one would initially think. The pizza world is diverse, and different regions have their unique styles and preferences. While some may prefer thin-crust Neapolitan pizza, others find joy in the rich and indulgent texture of thick-crust pizza. The debate on what constitutes the "purest" pizza is subjective and often fueled by personal preferences rather than objective criteria.