Understanding Calzone: Pizza’s Stealthy Cousin
When discussing Italian delicacies, it's hard to miss the towering presence of pizza. However, one question often arises: is a calzone a type of pizza? The answer, much like the culinary art of folding dough, can be a bit nuanced and subjective. This article will explore the similarities and differences between calzones and pizzas, helping you understand why a calzone is not simply a pizza but rather its own unique category of hand pies.
Are Calzones and Pizzas the Same?
The disagreement about whether a calzone is a pizza can be compared to the debate over garlic bread and focaccia. Both are staples in Italian cuisine, and while they share certain traits, the differences between them are significant enough to warrant separate culinary identities.
Most literature, including culinary texts, often points to a clear distinction. A calzone is a folded pizza, typically filled with various cheeses, meats, and other delicious ingredients, and then baked. It is equivalent to half a pizza, folded and sealed, and sometimes fried.
The Global Perspective: Regions and Traditions
Interestingly, the answer to whether a calzone is a pizza may vary depending on which side of the pizza aisle you stand on. For instance, as a native Italian, one might argue that calzones are a distinct type of food, separate from pizza. However, the baker in you might see it as a creative twist on the beloved flatbread.
The origin of calzones is deeply rooted in southern Italy, where it has become a significant tradition. These folded and baked hand pies are a ubiquitous sight in many Italian homes and restaurants, especially during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter. Unlike pizzas, which are typically served in slices, calzones are usually portioned as whole units, making them the perfect individual serving for a casual meal or a quick snack.
Calzones vs. Pizzas: A Culinary Comparison
While both calzones and pizzas start with the same classic dough, the engineering of a calzone makes it distinct. A pizza is a flatbread with toppings that are exposed to the heat of the oven, creating that perfect, crisp edge and rich, caramelized crust. Conversely, a calzone keeps its filling closer to the center, often remaining warm and steamy even after baking.
Just as a taco differs from a burrito, so too do calzones and pizzas have their fans. A calzone can be likened to a Russian pirozhki or a British pie. These hand pies, with their versatile fillings and folded closure, share a common ground with calzones. The difference, however, lies in the final presentation and the heat distribution experienced by the ingredients.
Conclusion
Ultimately, while calzones and pizzas share many similarities, their differences make them distinctly different preparations. A calzone is a pizza folded and closed, offering a unique culinary experience that combines the best of both worlds – the crispy edge of a pizza and the mouthwatering, steamy center of a hand pie. So, next time you're at your local Italian restaurant or experimenting in the kitchen, embrace the creativity of a calzone and experience its unique charm.