Exploring Underrated Pizza Styles: From Thin Crust to Detroit Thick
There are countless pizza styles around the world, each bringing its own unique taste and cultural experience to the table. However, many of these styles remain underrated and underappreciated. From the New Haven style apizza with its savory white pizza and fresh clams, to the humble bar pizza cooked in a cage and the innovative french bread pizza, these pizzas challenge the conventional norms and deserve more recognition. Additionally, rising to prominence is the Detroit pizza, with its thick and chewy crust that sets it apart from other styles.
The Unrevealed Charm of Apizza: New Haven Style
Too many people remain oblivious to the unique and delicious apizza, which is synonymous with New Haven-style pizza. Pepe’s and Sally’s are well-known establishments that serve this distinctive white pizza filled with fresh local clams. This particular type of pizza is loved for its simplicity and freshness, making it a must-try for both locals and visitors to the region.
Dimly Lined Bars and Bar Pizza
Another underrated pizza style is the bar pizza. Unlike its upscale counterparts, this pizza is more likely to be found in cozy, dimly lit bars around the Boston area. The dough for bar pizza is fully saturated with olive oil, giving it a distinctive oily taste when it’s served. This simple preparation method ensures that the dough captures the rich flavor of the oil and caramelizes beautifully during baking.
A Polite Distinction: Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Barbecue chicken pizza is a style that often starts as a playful gimmick but can evolve into something quite delightful. This unique pizza style combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with the classic pizza toppings. When prepared well, barbecue chicken pizza can offer a surprising and satisfying blend of tastes that go beyond the usual.
A Unique Approach: French Bread Pizza
Too often overlooked, the French bread pizza, while not a pizza in the traditional sense, is an innovative and delightful option. This style of pizza typically uses a baguette or a piece of French bread as the base, with a thin layer of tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings spread on top. The crisp texture of the bread combined with the gooey melted cheese makes for a unique eating experience. Despite its unconventional approach, it's worth trying if you're in the mood for something different.
The Thick and Chewy Resistance: Detroit Pizza
Finally, we come to the Detroit pizza, which stands out from its more well-known counterparts like New York Sicilian or Chicago deep dish. This pizza features a thick and chewy crust that is cooked on a flat surface, creating a simpler and more straightforward eating experience. The crust is allowed to air bake, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. This style of pizza is appreciated for its traditional and hearty feel, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a more rustic and full-bodied pizza experience.
These pizza styles, though underrated, offer a fresh and exciting twist on what we typically think of as pizza. From the savory and fresh clams of apizza to the traditional yet innovative bar pizza, and the crisp and satisfying French bread pizza, there's something for everyone to discover. Whether you're a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, these styles will undoubtedly broaden your culinary horizons.