Introduction
St. Louis style pizza is a distinct type of pizza originating from St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its unique crust, cheese, and cutting method, it stands apart from other regional pizza styles like New York or Chicago. The key features of St. Louis style pizza include a thin, cracker-like crust, a special cheese blend called Provel, and a square or rectangular cut.
At first glance, St. Louis style pizza may look similar to other thin-crust pizzas, but the differences become clear upon closer inspection. The crust is incredibly thin and has a cracker-like texture, unlike the chewy thin crusts found in New York style pizzas. This unique crust is achieved by using unleavened dough, which means no yeast is used. The lack of yeast gives the crust its characteristic crunch and stiffness.
Provel cheese is another defining feature of St. Louis style pizza. Provel is a processed cheese blend made from cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses. It has a low melting point, resulting in a creamy, gooey texture when melted. This cheese is rarely found outside the St. Louis area, making it a distinctive element of this pizza style. Provel’s flavor is also unique, offering a tangy, smoky taste that complements the thin crust and toppings.
Toppings for St. Louis style pizza are generally similar to those found on other types of pizza. Common toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. However, the way the pizza is cut sets it apart. Instead of the traditional pie-like wedges, St. Louis style pizza is cut into small squares or rectangles, often referred to as “party cut” or “tavern cut.” This cutting method allows for more manageable pieces and is ideal for sharing among groups.
The origins of St. Louis style pizza can be traced back to the Italian immigrants who settled in St. Louis in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, which evolved over time to create the unique style of pizza now associated with the city. One of the earliest and most influential pizzerias in St. Louis is Imo’s Pizza, which opened in 1964. Imo’s popularized the use of Provel cheese and the cracker-like crust, solidifying the characteristics of St. Louis style pizza.
Tradition of St. Louis Style Pizza
Despite its local popularity, St. Louis style pizza has not gained widespread recognition outside of the Midwest. This could be due to the unique taste and texture of Provel cheese, which can be polarizing. Some people love its creamy, smoky flavor, while others find it too processed or artificial. Additionally, the cracker-like crust can be a departure from the more familiar chewy or doughy crusts found in other pizza styles.
In St. Louis, however, this style of pizza is a beloved part of the local food culture. Many residents grew up eating St. Louis style pizza at family gatherings, parties, and local pizzerias. It is often enjoyed with a side of toasted ravioli, another St. Louis specialty, and a cold beer. The pizza’s thin crust and small pieces make it perfect for snacking and sharing, reinforcing its role in social gatherings.
While the traditional St. Louis style pizza remains popular, some modern variations have emerged. Some pizzerias offer whole wheat or gluten-free crust options to cater to dietary preferences. Others experiment with different cheese blends or toppings, adding a contemporary twist to the classic recipe. Despite these innovations, the core elements of a thin, cracker-like crust and the use of Provel cheese remain central to the identity of St. Louis style pizza.
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Make at Home
Making St. Louis style pizza at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. The key to achieving the signature crust is to use an unleavened dough recipe, which typically includes flour, water, olive oil, and salt. The dough should be rolled out very thin to achieve the desired cracker-like texture. For the sauce, a simple mixture of tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and basil works well. Provel cheese can be challenging to find outside of St. Louis, but some specialty stores or online retailers may carry it. Alternatively, a blend of white cheddar, Swiss, and provolone can be used as a substitute.
Once the crust, sauce, and cheese are prepared, the pizza can be assembled with the desired toppings and baked in a hot oven, typically around 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The pizza should be baked until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. After baking, the pizza is cut into small squares or rectangles and served hot.
The cultural significance of St. Louis style pizza extends beyond its ingredients and preparation. It represents a piece of the city’s history and heritage, reflecting the contributions of Italian immigrants to the local food scene. The pizza’s unique characteristics have created a sense of regional pride, with many St. Louisans considering it an essential part of their identity.
Where to Try
Despite its relatively limited geographic reach, St. Louis style pizza has garnered attention from food enthusiasts and culinary experts. It has been featured in various food blogs, television shows, and magazines, highlighting its distinctive qualities and cultural importance. Some chefs and restaurateurs outside of St. Louis have even attempted to replicate the style, bringing a taste of St. Louis to other parts of the country.
In recent years, the rise of social media and food tourism has further boosted the visibility of St. Louis style pizza. Visitors to the city often seek out local pizzerias to try this regional specialty, sharing their experiences and photos online. This increased exposure has helped introduce St. Louis style pizza to a broader audience, generating interest and curiosity among pizza lovers.
While it may never achieve the same level of fame as New York or Chicago style pizza, St. Louis style pizza holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with it. Its unique combination of a thin, crispy crust, creamy Provel cheese, and square cut pieces sets it apart from other pizza styles, offering a distinct and memorable dining experience.
For those looking to explore different types of pizza, trying St. Louis style pizza is a must. Its unique characteristics provide a refreshing change from more familiar pizza styles, offering a new perspective on this beloved dish. Whether enjoyed at a local pizzeria in St. Louis or made at home, St. Louis style pizza is sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are some notable places where you can enjoy authentic St. Louis style pizza:
1. Imo’s Pizza
Imo’s Pizza is the most famous pizzeria in St. Louis for this style. Founded in 1964, Imo’s has grown into a local institution with numerous locations throughout the city and beyond. Imo’s popularized the use of Provel cheese and the distinctive thin crust that define St. Louis style pizza. A visit to Imo’s provides an authentic experience of this beloved regional specialty.
2. Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria
Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria is another well-known chain in St. Louis that serves traditional St. Louis style pizza. With multiple locations, Cecil Whittaker’s offers a variety of toppings on their thin, crispy crust and gooey Provel cheese. The pizzeria has been serving the St. Louis area for decades, making it a reliable spot for enjoying this unique pizza.
3. Stefanina’s Pizzeria
Stefanina’s Pizzeria, located in St. Charles and O’Fallon, Missouri, offers a classic St. Louis style pizza experience. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious pizzas, Stefanina’s uses the signature cracker-like crust and Provel cheese to create a tasty and authentic pizza. The family-owned pizzeria is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
4. Fortel’s Pizza Den
Fortel’s Pizza Den, with several locations in the St. Louis area, serves up delicious St. Louis style pizza. The pizzeria is known for its fresh ingredients, thin crust, and Provel cheese, making it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic St. Louis pizza experience. Fortel’s also offers a variety of other menu items, but the St. Louis style pizza is the star of the show.
5. Pirrone’s Pizzeria
Pirrone’s Pizzeria is another excellent spot to enjoy St. Louis style pizza. Located in Florissant, Missouri, Pirrone’s offers a cozy dining atmosphere and a menu featuring their signature thin crust pizzas topped with Provel cheese. The pizzeria has a loyal following and is known for its consistent quality and delicious flavors.
6. Serra’s Pizzeria
Serra’s Pizzeria, located in Maryland Heights, Missouri, is a family-owned pizzeria that has been serving St. Louis style pizza since 1970. Serra’s uses a traditional recipe for their thin, crispy crust and Provel cheese, creating a classic St. Louis style pizza. The pizzeria’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
7. Joanie’s Pizzeria
Joanie’s Pizzeria, located in the Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis, offers a great selection of St. Louis style pizzas. Known for its casual atmosphere and friendly service, Joanie’s serves up delicious pizzas with the characteristic thin crust and Provel cheese. The pizzeria also features live music and outdoor seating, making it a fun place to enjoy a meal.
8. Frank & Helen’s Pizzeria
Frank & Helen’s Pizzeria, established in 1956, is one of the oldest pizzerias in St. Louis. Located in University City, Frank & Helen’s offers traditional St. Louis style pizza with a thin, crispy crust and Provel cheese. The pizzeria’s long history and commitment to quality make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors.
Conclusion
St. Louis style pizza is a unique and beloved regional specialty. Its thin, cracker-like crust, Provel cheese, and square cut pieces set it apart from other pizza styles. The pizza’s origins, tied to Italian immigrants and local pizzerias like Imo’s Pizza, reflect its cultural significance in St. Louis. While it may not have gained widespread recognition outside the Midwest, St. Louis style pizza remains a cherished part of the city’s food culture. For those interested in exploring different pizza styles, St. Louis style pizza offers a distinctive and enjoyable experience.
FAQs
What makes St. Louis style pizza different from other types of pizza?
St. Louis style pizza features a thin, cracker-like crust, Provel cheese, and is cut into small squares or rectangles.
What is Provel cheese?
Provel cheese is a processed cheese blend made from cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses. It has a low melting point and a creamy, gooey texture when melted.
Where can I try St. Louis style pizza?
St. Louis style pizza is primarily found in St. Louis, Missouri. Local pizzerias like Imo’s Pizza are well-known for this style. Some specialty stores or online retailers may also carry Provel cheese for making it at home.