Detroit pizza, also known as Detroit-style pizza, is a unique and delicious pizza that originated in Detroit, Michigan. It’s distinct for its rectangular shape, thick crust, and mouth-watering layers of cheese and toppings. Unlike traditional round pizzas, Detroit pizza offers a completely different texture and flavor experience, making it a must-try for pizza lovers everywhere.
In this article, we will explore the history of Detroit pizza, its key ingredients, and what sets it apart from other types of pizza. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or someone who just loves trying new food, this guide will provide everything you need to know about Detroit-style pizza.
The History of Detroit Pizza
Detroit-style pizza has an interesting and somewhat accidental history. It was created in the 1940s by a man named Gus Guerra, an Italian-American who owned a restaurant in Detroit called Buddy’s Rendezvous. Guerra didn’t initially set out to create a new style of pizza. He simply wanted to serve pizza in a way that was practical for the restaurant’s customers.
Guerra used square steel pans, originally used for holding automotive parts in factories, to bake the pizzas. These pans were ideal for creating a thick, crispy crust. Over time, people began to recognize the unique qualities of the pizza and the style caught on. By the 1950s, it was clear that Detroit pizza had become a local sensation. Today, it remains one of Detroit’s most famous culinary contributions.
Key Characteristics of Detroit Pizza
Detroit pizza is easily recognizable due to its distinctive characteristics. Here are the main features that define this style of pizza:
Rectangular Shape
Unlike traditional round pizzas, Detroit pizza is baked in a rectangular or square shape. This shape gives it a unique appearance and allows for more servings compared to round pizzas. The rectangular shape also provides a better ratio of crust to topping, making every bite satisfying.
Thick, Crispy Crust
One of the standout features of Detroit pizza is its thick, fluffy crust. The dough is fermented and allowed to rise, creating a soft interior and a crispy, golden exterior. This texture contrasts with the thinner, crispier crust found in other pizza styles like New York or Neapolitan pizza.
The crust is usually baked in a well-oiled pan, which helps it achieve a crispy, almost fried texture. This gives the pizza a rich and indulgent flavor, especially around the edges.
Cheese Spread to the Edges
Another signature feature of Detroit pizza is the way cheese is spread. Instead of being placed only on top of the sauce, the cheese is spread all the way to the edges of the pan. This creates a delicious, crispy cheese crust around the pizza. The cheese used is typically a blend of mozzarella and a special cheese called Wisconsin brick cheese, which melts beautifully and has a slightly tangy flavor.
Sauce on Top
Unlike traditional pizzas where the sauce is spread under the cheese, Detroit pizza has a layer of sauce on top of the cheese. The sauce is typically a thick and tangy marinara-style sauce. This helps maintain the integrity of the crust and prevents the pizza from becoming soggy. Additionally, it gives the pizza a fresh and flavorful burst with every bite.
Toppings
Detroit pizza can be topped with a variety of ingredients, much like other types of pizza. However, the toppings are usually arranged in a specific manner. For instance, many Detroit pizzas feature pepperoni that is placed directly on top of the cheese, ensuring that it crisps up during the baking process. Some variations of Detroit pizza may feature other toppings such as sausage, mushrooms, onions, or vegetables.
The Making of Detroit Pizza
Making Detroit pizza at home requires a few special ingredients and tools. Here’s a general idea of how it is made:
Dough Preparation
The dough for Detroit pizza is thick and slightly airy. To achieve the perfect texture, it is essential to use high-gluten flour. The dough needs to be kneaded and then allowed to rise for a few hours. The longer the dough rises, the fluffier the crust will be. Some recipes even call for an overnight rise to deepen the flavors.
Pan Selection
The baking pan used to create Detroit pizza is crucial for getting the signature crispy crust. While some home cooks use regular baking sheets, a traditional Detroit pizza pan is made of steel and is specifically designed for this type of pizza. The pan needs to be well-oiled to ensure the pizza bakes evenly and the edges become crispy.
Layering the Pizza
Once the dough has risen, it’s stretched to fit the pan. Then, a layer of cheese is added directly on top of the dough, spreading all the way to the edges. After the cheese, the toppings are added, followed by the sauce on top. This layering technique is what sets Detroit pizza apart from other types of pizza.
Baking
Detroit pizza is typically baked at a high temperature (around 450°F to 500°F). The pizza needs to bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly crispy. The pan helps ensure the pizza is evenly baked, with the cheese forming a crispy, golden crust around the edges.
Popular Variations of Detroit Pizza
While the classic Detroit pizza features a simple combination of cheese, sauce, and toppings, there are several variations that have become popular over time. These variations may include different sauces, cheeses, or unique toppings. Here are some of the most common variations:
Classic Pepperoni Detroit Pizza
The classic version of Detroit pizza often includes pepperoni, which is placed directly on top of the cheese before baking. The pepperoni crisps up beautifully, adding a savory flavor to every bite. This is a fan favorite and remains one of the most popular variations.
Supreme Detroit Pizza
The supreme version of Detroit pizza is loaded with toppings such as sausage, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and olives. This variation is perfect for those who love a variety of flavors and textures on their pizza.
Vegetarian Detroit Pizza
For those who prefer a meatless option, vegetarian Detroit pizza is a great choice. This version features a combination of vegetables like mushrooms, onions, spinach, and bell peppers. The sauce on top enhances the freshness of the vegetables, making each bite satisfying.
Meat Lovers Detroit Pizza
For meat enthusiasts, the meat lovers Detroit pizza is packed with multiple types of meat such as bacon, sausage, ham, and pepperoni. The rich combination of meats adds a bold flavor to the pizza that pairs wonderfully with the crispy crust.
Where to Find Detroit Pizza
Detroit pizza has grown beyond Michigan, and you can now find it in many places across the United States and even internationally. Several pizzerias specialize in this style of pizza, and many have gained a loyal following. Some well-known Detroit pizza chains include:
Buddy’s Pizza – The original creator of Detroit pizza.
Jet’s Pizza – A popular chain offering Detroit-style pizzas with a variety of toppings.
Little Caesars – While they are known for their hot-n-ready pizzas, they also offer Detroit-style pizzas in certain locations.
In addition to these chains, many local pizzerias around the country have started making Detroit-style pizza to cater to the growing demand. If you’re in Detroit, you can enjoy an authentic experience by visiting one of the local pizzerias.
Why Detroit Pizza is Special
Detroit pizza is special for several reasons. First, it has a unique shape and texture that sets it apart from other pizza styles. The thick, crispy crust is perfect for those who love a hearty and indulgent pizza. The combination of cheese all the way to the edges and the sauce on top creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Additionally, Detroit pizza offers versatility with toppings. You can enjoy a classic pepperoni pizza or experiment with a variety of vegetables and meats. The sauce on top provides a tangy burst that complements the richness of the cheese and toppings.
Detroit pizza also has a cultural significance in Detroit, representing the city’s working-class roots. Its humble beginnings in the 1940s have helped it grow into one of the most beloved regional pizza styles in the country.
Conclusion
Detroit pizza is a unique and flavorful style of pizza that has won the hearts of pizza lovers worldwide. Its rectangular shape, thick crust, and distinctive layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings make it stand out from other pizza styles. Whether you enjoy the classic pepperoni version or prefer a more adventurous topping combination, Detroit pizza offers something for everyone.
If you haven’t tried Detroit pizza yet, it’s time to give it a go. Whether you’re in Detroit or elsewhere, many pizzerias now serve this delicious style, so you won’t have to travel far to experience it. The crispy crust, cheesy goodness, and tangy sauce are sure to leave you craving more.
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