Tavern cut pizza is a distinct style of pizza that originates from the Midwest of the United States. It is known for its square or rectangular shape, with the pizza being cut into small, rectangular pieces instead of the usual triangle slices. This style of pizza is popular for its simplicity, satisfying crust, and the way it encourages sharing. Tavern cut pizza has a rich history and has been a staple in many small-town pizzerias for generations.
In this article, we will explore the details of tavern cut pizza, its origins, how it’s made, and what makes it different from other pizza styles. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or just curious about new styles, this guide will help you understand what tavern cut pizza is all about.
The Origins of Tavern Cut Pizza
Tavern cut pizza has a deep-rooted connection to the Midwest, particularly in areas like Chicago, Illinois, and throughout the state of Wisconsin. It gets its name from the small taverns, bars, and local eateries where it was commonly served. The style of pizza was not necessarily designed to be fancy but rather practical for the casual environment of a neighborhood bar or tavern.
Historically, tavern cut pizza was designed to be easy to share. The small square or rectangular slices made it simple for groups of people to enjoy together, and the shape worked well for the long, narrow tables that were often found in taverns. Tavern cut pizza quickly became a favorite in these settings because it was inexpensive, delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends over a beer.
While tavern cut pizza is not as famous as the traditional round pizza in places like New York or Naples, it has maintained a loyal following in the Midwest. It continues to be a popular choice in local pizzerias and taverns in many of these regions.
The Characteristics of Tavern Cut Pizza
Tavern cut pizza is distinct from other pizza styles in a few key ways. These characteristics contribute to its unique appeal and are part of the reason it remains so popular in certain parts of the United States.
Shape and Cut
The most defining characteristic of tavern cut pizza is its shape. Unlike traditional round pizzas that are sliced into wedges or triangles, tavern cut pizza is typically made in a square or rectangular shape. The pizza is then cut into small, rectangular pieces, making it easy to grab and share. This cutting method gives tavern cut pizza a “party” or “sharing” vibe, making it perfect for group gatherings.
The small slices also make tavern cut pizza more approachable for people who might not want to commit to a large wedge of pizza. It’s easy to sample a few pieces and try different toppings without feeling overwhelmed.
Thin Crust
Tavern cut pizza is often made with a thin, crispy crust. This crust is crucial to the overall texture and flavor of the pizza. The thinness of the crust allows for a crisp bite, and because the pizza is typically baked at a high temperature, it often has a slightly crunchy and charred exterior. The combination of a thin, crispy crust with the soft, melty toppings creates a delightful balance of textures.
The crust is often not as thick or chewy as other pizza styles like deep-dish or Sicilian pizza, but it provides the perfect foundation for the toppings.
Toppings
Tavern cut pizza is typically topped with a simple layer of cheese and tomato sauce, but it can be customized with a variety of other toppings. Common toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. The toppings are usually spread out evenly across the pizza, which allows each piece to be uniformly delicious. The thin crust and square slices make the toppings easy to eat without being overwhelming.
While the toppings on tavern cut pizza may be simpler than those found on other pizza styles, the focus is on high-quality ingredients and balance in flavor. Many tavern pizzerias use locally sourced cheese and fresh ingredients for a more authentic, homemade taste.
The Sauce
The sauce on tavern cut pizza is typically spread evenly across the surface, but it’s not usually as thick or chunky as the sauce found on some other styles of pizza. The sauce is usually made with a combination of tomatoes, herbs, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful base. It complements the cheese and toppings without overpowering them.
Some tavern cut pizzas may also feature a slightly sweeter sauce, which balances nicely with the savory toppings. The sauce is often applied in a thin layer, allowing the crust to stay crispy while still providing the necessary moisture and flavor.
Baking Method
Tavern cut pizza is often baked in a traditional pizza oven or a deck oven, which helps to produce the crispy crust. The high temperature at which the pizza is baked allows the cheese to melt perfectly and the crust to become golden and crunchy. The result is a pizza that has a slightly crispy texture without being too hard or dry.
The baking method is crucial in ensuring that the tavern cut pizza has the right texture and flavor. The pizza is usually baked for a relatively short time, ensuring that the crust doesn’t become too thick or chewy.
Why Tavern Cut Pizza is Popular
Tavern cut pizza is beloved for several reasons. Its ease of sharing, crispy crust, and delicious toppings make it a favorite in taverns, pizzerias, and homes across the Midwest. Here are some of the reasons why people continue to love this unique style of pizza:
Shareability
One of the most appealing aspects of tavern cut pizza is its shareability. The small, rectangular slices make it easy to grab a piece and pass it around. This makes it ideal for parties, casual gatherings, or even just a family dinner. The shape and cut of the pizza are perfect for social situations where people want to sample different toppings and flavors without committing to a large slice.
Perfect for Groups
Tavern cut pizza is often served in larger rectangular pans, making it an excellent choice for groups. The pizza can be divided into many small pieces, making it easy to feed a crowd without having to worry about running out of food. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual night out with friends, tavern cut pizza is a great way to keep everyone satisfied.
Flavor Balance
The combination of a thin, crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and high-quality toppings creates a well-balanced pizza. The simple approach to toppings means that the flavors shine through without being masked by overly complicated or heavy ingredients. This makes tavern cut pizza a versatile option for a variety of tastes and preferences.
Nostalgia and Tradition
For many people, tavern cut pizza brings back memories of casual nights at the local tavern or pizza joint. The style has been around for generations and remains a staple in many Midwest communities. The nostalgia associated with tavern cut pizza adds to its charm, making it a favorite for those who grew up with it or have fond memories of eating it with family and friends.
How to Make Tavern Cut Pizza at Home
Making tavern cut pizza at home is relatively easy, and it’s a fun way to enjoy this unique style of pizza without having to visit a pizzeria. Here’s a basic recipe to try:
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, sausage, onions, peppers, mushrooms, etc.)
- Olive oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Grease a rectangular baking pan with olive oil.
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to fit the size of the pan. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press it to the edges.
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Add your toppings, spreading them out in a uniform layer.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into small rectangular pieces.
Serve and enjoy your homemade tavern cut pizza!
Conclusion
Tavern cut pizza is a beloved pizza style that is perfect for sharing, enjoying with friends, and satisfying a crowd. Its simple ingredients, thin crust, and unique rectangular cut make it stand out from other pizza styles. Whether you’re in the Midwest or elsewhere, it’s worth trying this delicious and nostalgic pizza style.
Now that you know all about tavern cut pizza, you can try it at home or look for it at your local pizzeria. It’s a great option for any occasion and offers a fun twist on traditional pizza.
Related topic:
- The Ultimate Guide to Pizza Cheese: Types, Uses, and Tips
- How Much Oil in Pizza Dough?
- What Cheese is Good for Pizza?
