Want to know more about Chicago-style pizza?
What exactly defines Chicago-style pizza?
Chicago-style pizza, most accurately described as deep-dish pizza, is defined by its high-edged crust that resembles a cake pan, generous amounts of cheese (typically mozzarella), a chunky tomato sauce layered on top of the cheese, and a customizable variety of fillings like sausage, vegetables, and pepperoni beneath the cheese layer.
While often called "pizza," the preparation and eating experience of Chicago-style is vastly different from its thinner-crusted counterparts. The deep-dish crust is buttery and sturdy, designed to contain a substantial amount of ingredients. This requires a longer baking time, which is why the cheese is placed below the sauce – to prevent it from burning. The order of construction is the key differentiator, along with the sheer volume of ingredients used. A true Chicago-style pizza is a hearty and filling meal, often requiring a knife and fork to eat. Compared to other regional pizza styles, Chicago deep-dish stands out because it isn't about a simple, crisp base with light toppings. It’s a culinary event, prioritizing a layered flavor profile and a substantial eating experience. Its construction deliberately inverts the standard pizza layering process (sauce on top) to accommodate its deep dish and lengthy baking, creating a uniquely textured and flavored result.How is Chicago pizza dough different from others?
Chicago pizza dough, specifically for deep-dish, distinguishes itself primarily through its higher fat content, often incorporating butter or oil (or both) directly into the dough recipe. This results in a characteristically richer, almost biscuit-like, and slightly flaky crust, quite different from the thinner, chewier Neapolitan or New York-style pizzas or the crisp, airy texture of a Detroit-style pizza.
The incorporation of fat is crucial for achieving the desired texture and structure of a Chicago deep-dish crust. The fat inhibits gluten development, which prevents the crust from becoming overly tough or chewy. Instead, the finished product is tender and slightly crumbly, capable of supporting the significant weight of the abundant cheese and toppings. This buttery or oily richness also contributes a distinct flavor profile that complements the savory filling. Beyond the fat content, the dough is typically pressed, rather than stretched, into a deep, oiled pan, creating the signature tall sides. This pan preparation is essential for preventing sticking and allows the crust to bake evenly while also partially frying in the oil. The final result is a crust that is crispy on the outside, tender within, and robust enough to contain the generous layers of ingredients.What order are the toppings layered in for Chicago pizza?
The toppings in a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza are layered in a reverse order compared to traditional pizzas, primarily to prevent the crust from becoming soggy under the weight of the sauce and cheese. The cheese goes directly on the crust, followed by the toppings, and then the sauce is ladled on top.
The specific layering technique is essential to the structural integrity and overall taste of a deep-dish pizza. Placing the mozzarella cheese directly on the crust acts as a moisture barrier, preventing the sauce from saturating the dough and resulting in a soggy base. This is crucial because Chicago-style pizzas require a longer baking time to fully cook the tall crust and abundant fillings. The choice of toppings can vary, but they're strategically placed above the cheese layer. This placement allows the toppings to cook evenly and infuse their flavors into the cheese. Finally, a generous layer of chunky tomato sauce is spread on top, providing a vibrant and tangy finish to the pizza. This unconventional order is what gives Chicago deep-dish its signature look and unique flavor profile.What kind of sauce is typically used on a Chicago pizza?
Chicago-style pizza, particularly deep-dish, usually features a chunky, vibrant tomato sauce made with crushed or pureed tomatoes, often seasoned with herbs like oregano, basil, and sometimes a touch of red pepper flakes. The sauce is typically applied on top of the cheese, which is opposite the common practice of layering sauce beneath the cheese.
Because Chicago deep-dish has such a tall crust, the sauce needs to be robust and flavorful enough to stand up to the substantial amount of dough and toppings. The use of crushed or pureed tomatoes gives the sauce a hearty texture and a rich tomato taste. Some variations might include bits of tomato and vegetables for added dimension. While a smoother sauce might work, the classic Chicago style truly benefits from a chunky, rustic sauce. The specific herbs and spices used in the sauce can vary from pizzeria to pizzeria, contributing to the unique character of each establishment's deep-dish creation. The sweetness and acidity of the sauce are important components, playing off the richness of the cheese and the savory flavors of the other ingredients. The sauce isn’t just an afterthought; it's an integral part of the overall Chicago pizza experience.How thick is the crust of authentic Chicago-style pizza?
The crust of an authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is typically about 2 to 3 inches thick around the edges, forming a high, sturdy wall that holds the substantial amounts of cheese and tomato sauce. The base itself is usually about ½ inch thick.
The defining characteristic of Chicago-style pizza isn't necessarily the thickness of the base crust, but rather the overall depth of the pizza and the inverted layering of ingredients. The crust is pressed up the sides of a deep, oiled pan (often a cast iron skillet) creating the high, bread-like walls. This "crust" functions more like a pie crust than a traditional pizza crust, providing a vessel for the copious fillings. Contrary to popular belief, the deep-dish crust is not always dense and heavy. Many authentic Chicago pizzerias strive for a somewhat light and flaky crust, similar to a biscuit or pie crust. The purpose of the thick sides is primarily structural, designed to contain the generous portions of cheese and chunky tomato sauce that define the Chicago-style pizza experience.What cheeses are commonly used on Chicago deep-dish?
Mozzarella is the undisputed king of cheeses when it comes to Chicago deep-dish pizza. It forms the foundation of that gooey, cheesy goodness that defines the style. While mozzarella is the star, other cheeses, like provolone or sometimes even a sprinkle of Parmesan, may be used to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
While mozzarella is the most common choice, the type of mozzarella can vary. Some pizzerias opt for low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella, which melts beautifully and provides a good stretch without excessive greasiness. Others might use a whole-milk mozzarella for a richer, creamier flavor. The specific blend and quality of the mozzarella contribute significantly to the overall taste and texture of the pizza. Beyond mozzarella, the use of other cheeses is often a closely guarded secret. A touch of provolone can add a subtle tang and a different melting characteristic. Some chefs might also include a small amount of Parmesan or Romano cheese to introduce a sharp, salty note that complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce. However, these additions are generally used sparingly, ensuring that mozzarella remains the dominant flavor.Is Chicago pizza always deep-dish, or are there other variations?
While Chicago is most famous for its deep-dish pizza, it's not the only style found in the city. There's also a lesser-known but equally beloved style called Chicago thin-crust, often characterized by its crispy, cracker-like crust and cut into squares (tavern-style).
Chicago deep-dish pizza is defined by its high-edged crust that resembles a cake pan more than a traditional pizza base. This allows for a generous filling of cheese, toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce, typically layered in reverse order (cheese first, then toppings, then sauce) to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. It's a substantial, knife-and-fork affair, a true culinary experience. However, Chicago's pizza scene is much more diverse than this single, albeit iconic, style. Chicago thin-crust, on the other hand, represents a different pizza philosophy. This style boasts a thin and crispy crust, almost cracker-like, which provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s typically topped sparingly with cheese and sauce, allowing the quality of the ingredients and the texture of the crust to shine. This is then cut into small squares, a tradition known as "tavern-style," which makes it ideal for sharing in a casual setting, like a neighborhood bar. Therefore, while deep-dish is the most widely recognized Chicago pizza style, experiencing the thin-crust version offers a more complete understanding of Chicago's diverse and delicious pizza culture.So, that's Chicago style pizza in a nutshell! Hopefully, you've now got a good handle on what makes this deep-dish delight so special. Thanks for taking the time to learn more about it. We hope you'll come back and explore more culinary curiosities with us soon!