When it comes to Italian cuisine, pizza is undoubtedly one of the most beloved and iconic dishes. With its rich flavors, aromas, and textures, it’s no wonder why pizza has become a staple in many cultures around the world. However, within the realm of Italian pizza, there exists a unique and delicious variation that has gained popularity in recent years: the Italian folded pizza. But what exactly is an Italian folded pizza called?
A Brief History of Italian Folded Pizza
To understand the origins of the Italian folded pizza, we need to delve into the history of Neapolitan pizza, which dates back to the 18th century. The art of pizza-making originated in Naples, Italy, where street vendors, known as “pizzaiolos,” would sell flatbreads topped with ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and basil. Over time, pizza evolved, and different regions in Italy developed their unique styles and techniques.
One such style is the “Panzerotti,” a type of folded pizza that originated in the southern region of Puglia. Panzerotti are essentially small, folded pockets of dough filled with ingredients like mozzarella, tomato sauce, and various meats or vegetables. They are typically fried or baked and served as a snack or appetizer.
The Rise of the Italian Folded Pizza
In recent years, the Italian folded pizza has gained popularity worldwide, particularly in the United States. This can be attributed to the growing interest in artisanal and gourmet pizzas, as well as the influence of social media platforms like Instagram, where visually appealing foods like folded pizzas have become a staple.
The Italian folded pizza has also become a favorite among foodies and pizza enthusiasts, who appreciate the unique combination of flavors and textures that this style of pizza offers. From classic margherita to more adventurous toppings, the Italian folded pizza has become a versatile and exciting option for those looking to try something new.
What is an Italian Folded Pizza Called?
So, what exactly is an Italian folded pizza called? The answer lies in the various regional names and dialects used throughout Italy. Here are a few examples:
- Panzerotti: As mentioned earlier, panzerotti are a type of folded pizza that originated in Puglia. They are typically small, fried or baked pockets of dough filled with ingredients like mozzarella and tomato sauce.
- Calzone: Calzone is a type of folded pizza that originated in Naples. It is essentially a large, folded pocket of dough filled with ingredients like mozzarella, ham, and vegetables.
- Stromboli: Stromboli is a type of folded pizza that originated in Sicily. It is essentially a large, rolled pizza filled with ingredients like mozzarella, ham, and vegetables.
- Focaccia: Focaccia is a type of flatbread that originated in Genoa. While not strictly a folded pizza, focaccia is often topped with ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and cheese, and can be folded or rolled for convenience.
Regional Variations
As with any Italian dish, regional variations play a significant role in the world of folded pizzas. Here are a few examples:
- Neapolitan Folded Pizza: Neapolitan folded pizzas are known for their thin crust and delicate flavors. They are typically filled with ingredients like mozzarella, tomato sauce, and fresh basil.
- Sicilian Folded Pizza: Sicilian folded pizzas are known for their thick crust and rich flavors. They are typically filled with ingredients like mozzarella, anchovies, and eggplant.
- Roman Folded Pizza: Roman folded pizzas are known for their thin crust and savory flavors. They are typically filled with ingredients like mozzarella, prosciutto, and arugula.
How to Make an Italian Folded Pizza
Making an Italian folded pizza is a relatively simple process that requires a few basic ingredients and some practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Toppings of your choice (e.g., mozzarella, tomato sauce, basil)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is activated.
- Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix the dough until it comes together in a ball.
- Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, kneading the dough for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 2-4 equal portions, depending on the size of pizza you prefer.
- Roll out each portion of dough into a thin circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place your toppings in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the dough over the toppings, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the pizza.
- Brush the pizza with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Conclusion
The Italian folded pizza is a delicious and versatile dish that has gained popularity worldwide. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the Italian folded pizza is definitely worth a try. With its rich flavors, aromas, and textures, it’s no wonder why this style of pizza has become a staple in many cultures around the world. So next time you’re in the mood for pizza, why not try making an Italian folded pizza? Your taste buds will thank you!
What is an Italian Folded Pizza?
An Italian Folded Pizza, also known as a “folded pizza” or “pizza folded,” is a style of pizza that originated in Italy. It is a type of pizza that is folded in half to create a half-moon shape, typically after the toppings have been added. This style of pizza is popular in Italy, particularly in the southern regions, and has gained popularity worldwide in recent years.
The folded pizza is often made with a thin crust, which is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toppings are usually simple, with a focus on fresh ingredients such as mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and various meats or vegetables. The folding of the pizza creates a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza.
What are the origins of the Italian Folded Pizza?
The origins of the Italian Folded Pizza are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Naples and Sicily. The folded pizza is thought to have been created as a convenient and portable food option for workers and travelers. The folding of the pizza made it easy to eat on the go, and the crispy exterior and gooey interior made it a satisfying and filling meal.
The folded pizza has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and its popularity has endured to this day. In recent years, the folded pizza has gained popularity worldwide, with many pizzerias and restaurants offering their own versions of this delicious and unique pizza style.
What are the key ingredients of an Italian Folded Pizza?
The key ingredients of an Italian Folded Pizza are simple and fresh. The crust is typically made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, and is cooked in a wood-fired oven to create a crispy exterior and a soft interior. The toppings are usually simple, with a focus on fresh ingredients such as mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and various meats or vegetables.
Some common toppings for an Italian Folded Pizza include prosciutto, sausage, mushrooms, and olives. The toppings are usually added after the crust has been cooked, and the pizza is then folded in half to create the signature half-moon shape. The folding of the pizza creates a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza.
How is an Italian Folded Pizza typically cooked?
An Italian Folded Pizza is typically cooked in a wood-fired oven, which gives the crust a crispy exterior and a soft interior. The oven is heated to a high temperature, usually around 500°F (260°C), and the pizza is cooked for a short amount of time, usually around 2-3 minutes. This quick cooking time helps to create a crispy crust and a gooey interior.
After the crust has been cooked, the toppings are added, and the pizza is then folded in half to create the signature half-moon shape. The folding of the pizza helps to create a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza.
What are some popular variations of the Italian Folded Pizza?
There are many popular variations of the Italian Folded Pizza, each with its own unique toppings and flavor combinations. Some popular variations include the “Quattro Formaggi,” which is topped with four different types of cheese, and the “Prosciutto e Funghi,” which is topped with prosciutto and mushrooms.
Other popular variations include the “Siciliana,” which is topped with anchovies, eggplant, and ricotta cheese, and the “Napoletana,” which is topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Each variation offers a unique twist on the traditional Italian Folded Pizza, and there are many other variations to try as well.
Can I make an Italian Folded Pizza at home?
Yes, you can make an Italian Folded Pizza at home, but it may require some practice to get it right. To make a folded pizza at home, you will need a pizza dough, a pizza stone or baking steel, and a wood-fired oven or a domestic oven. You will also need to choose your toppings and add them to the pizza after it has been cooked.
To make a folded pizza at home, start by preheating your oven to a high temperature, usually around 500°F (260°C). Then, roll out the pizza dough and top it with your desired toppings. Cook the pizza in the oven for a short amount of time, usually around 2-3 minutes, and then fold it in half to create the signature half-moon shape.
What are some tips for eating an Italian Folded Pizza?
Eating an Italian Folded Pizza can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to help you enjoy it to the fullest. First, make sure to fold the pizza in half carefully, so that the toppings don’t spill out. Then, take a bite from the folded side, so that the crispy exterior and gooey interior are in each bite.
Another tip is to eat the folded pizza quickly, while it is still hot and crispy. This will help to preserve the texture and flavor of the pizza. Finally, be prepared for a messy meal, as the folded pizza can be a bit drippy and cheesy. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun of eating an Italian Folded Pizza!