Calabrese style pizza is a lesser-known but flavorful variant of Italian pizza. Originating from the Calabria region in southern Italy, this style of pizza is renowned for its bold flavors, rich ingredients, and distinct preparation methods. This article will delve into what defines Calabrese style pizza, its history, key ingredients, preparation methods, and its place in the broader context of Italian cuisine.
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History and Origins of Calabrese Style Pizza
The Calabria Region
Calabria, located in the toe of Italy’s boot, is known for its diverse culinary traditions. The region’s cuisine reflects a blend of influences from various cultures due to its historical position as a crossroads for trade and migration.
Historical Influences: Calabria has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Arab, and Spanish cuisines. These diverse influences have contributed to the unique flavors and ingredients found in Calabrese cuisine.
Local Ingredients: The region’s abundant produce, including hot peppers, cured meats, and cheeses, plays a significant role in its culinary traditions.
Development of Calabrese Style Pizza
Calabrese style pizza emerged as a local variation of traditional Italian pizza.
Influence of Traditional Pizza: Traditional Neapolitan and Roman pizzas set the foundation for many regional variations, including Calabrese. As the pizza culture spread, local ingredients and preferences shaped the development of distinct styles.
Adaptation of Ingredients: Calabrese style pizza incorporates regional ingredients such as spicy salami and Calabrian chilies, which give it a unique flavor profile.
Key Ingredients in Calabrese Style Pizza
Dough
The dough for Calabrese style pizza is typically made from high-quality flour, water, yeast, and salt.
Preparation: The dough is kneaded until smooth and allowed to rise for several hours. This process develops the gluten, resulting in a light and airy crust.
Characteristics: The dough is often rolled thin to create a crisp, yet tender, base that complements the rich toppings.
Sauce
The sauce used in Calabrese style pizza is usually a simple tomato sauce made from ripe tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Preparation: The tomatoes are often crushed or blended to create a smooth sauce. Garlic and herbs like basil and oregano add flavor.
Characteristics: The sauce is spread thinly over the dough to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Toppings
The toppings are what truly define Calabrese style pizza.
Calabrian Chili Peppers: These peppers are known for their intense heat and slightly fruity flavor. They are often sliced thinly and added to the pizza to provide a spicy kick.
Spicy Salami (Soppressata): A traditional Calabrian salami, soppressata is a cured meat that adds depth and spiciness to the pizza. It is typically sliced thin and distributed evenly over the sauce.
Cheese: While mozzarella is commonly used, Calabrese style pizza may also include other cheeses like provolone or pecorino, which contribute additional flavor.
Additional Ingredients: Other common toppings might include olives, onions, and bell peppers, which complement the spicy salami and chilies.
Preparation Methods
Dough Preparation
Mixing and Kneading: The ingredients are mixed until a smooth dough forms. The dough is then kneaded to develop its elasticity.
Rising: The dough is left to rise in a warm environment until it has doubled in size. This process can take several hours.
Shaping: Once risen, the dough is stretched or rolled into a thin, round shape.
Sauce Preparation
Cooking: The sauce ingredients are combined and cooked gently to blend the flavors. This can be done on the stovetop or in an oven.
Application: The sauce is spread evenly over the prepared dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
Topping Application
Layering: Toppings are arranged on the sauce before baking. Spicy salami and Calabrian chilies are typically added in a way that ensures even distribution.
Baking: The pizza is baked in a hot oven, often at temperatures of around 475°F (245°C) to 500°F (260°C). The high temperature ensures a crispy crust and well-cooked toppings.
Variations of Calabrese Style Pizza
Regional Variations
While the core elements of Calabrese style pizza remain consistent, regional variations may include:
Different Cheeses: In some areas, local cheeses like burrata or ricotta may be used instead of or in addition to mozzarella.
Additional Toppings: Variations might include different types of cured meats, vegetables, or herbs based on local preferences.
Fusion Pizzas
Calabrese Meets Other Styles: Calabrese style pizza can be combined with other pizza styles to create fusion dishes. For example, combining Calabrese toppings with a traditional New York-style crust can result in a unique flavor profile.
International Influence: As pizza continues to evolve globally, Calabrese style toppings are sometimes used in non-traditional ways, such as in pizza rolls or flatbreads.
Calabrese Style Pizza in Popular Culture
Influence on Global Pizza Trends
Rising Popularity: The distinctive flavor profile of Calabrese style pizza has contributed to its growing popularity outside of Italy. It reflects a broader trend of incorporating regional Italian flavors into global pizza offerings.
Gourmet Pizzas: Many pizzerias that focus on gourmet or artisanal pizzas include Calabrese style options on their menus. This reflects a growing appreciation for regional Italian cuisine.
Notable Restaurants
Specialty Pizzerias: Some pizzerias, particularly those specializing in Italian regional pizzas, feature Calabrese style pizza as a signature dish.
Global Chains: While less common, some international pizza chains have experimented with Calabrese style toppings in limited-time offerings or specialty pizzas.
Conclusion
Calabrese style pizza is a vibrant and flavorful variant of Italian pizza, characterized by its use of spicy Calabrian chilies, savory salami, and a crisp, thin crust. Its origins in the Calabria region reflect a rich culinary tradition that blends bold flavors with regional ingredients. The unique combination of toppings and preparation methods makes Calabrese style pizza a standout choice for those seeking a spicy and savory pizza experience. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or as part of a fusion dish, Calabrese style pizza continues to capture the imagination of pizza lovers around the world.