The city of Chicago is famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant music scene, and of course, its mouth-watering deep-dish pizza. This beloved dish has been a staple of Chicago’s culinary landscape for decades, with locals and tourists alike flocking to try a slice (or three) of this cheesy, saucy goodness. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly straightforward food lies a contentious debate that has sparked heated discussions among pizza enthusiasts: where do the toppings go on a Chicago deep-dish pizza?
A Brief History of Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
To understand the nuances of this debate, it’s essential to delve into the history of Chicago deep-dish pizza. This style of pizza originated in the 1940s, when Pizzeria Uno’s founder Ike Sewell and his partner Ric Riccardo developed a recipe that would become the hallmark of Chicago’s pizza scene. Their innovative approach involved reversing the traditional pizza-making process, placing a thick layer of cheese at the bottom of the crust, followed by meats, vegetables, and finally, a tangy tomato sauce on top.
This unconventional method allowed the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a crispy, caramelized crust that has become synonymous with Chicago deep-dish pizza. Over the years, this style of pizza has gained a loyal following, with numerous pizzerias throughout the city offering their own unique takes on the classic recipe.
The Topping Conundrum
So, where do the toppings go on a Chicago deep-dish pizza? The answer, much to the chagrin of some pizza purists, is not as straightforward as one might think. Traditionally, the toppings are layered in the following order:
- Cheese (a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan)
- Meats (such as sausage, pepperoni, or bacon)
- Vegetables (like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms)
- Tomato sauce
However, some pizzerias and pizza enthusiasts have begun to challenge this conventional wisdom, arguing that the toppings should be layered in a different order. Some propose placing the sauce at the bottom, while others suggest mixing the toppings throughout the pizza.
The Case for Traditional Topping Order
Proponents of the traditional topping order argue that this method allows each component to shine in its own right. The cheese, placed at the bottom, melts and bubbles, creating a crispy crust that provides a satisfying textural contrast to the soft, cheesy center. The meats and vegetables, layered on top of the cheese, add flavor and texture, while the tomato sauce, placed on top, adds a tangy, slightly sweet note to the pizza.
This order also allows for a harmonious balance of flavors, with each bite providing a perfect balance of cheese, meat, vegetables, and sauce. Deviating from this order, some argue, disrupts this delicate balance and creates a pizza that is less than the sum of its parts.
The Case for Non-Traditional Topping Order
On the other hand, those who advocate for a non-traditional topping order argue that this approach allows for greater creativity and flexibility. By placing the sauce at the bottom, for example, the pizza can take on a more sauce-forward flavor profile, which some argue is more in line with the traditional Italian approach to pizza-making.
Others propose mixing the toppings throughout the pizza, creating a more uniform distribution of flavors and textures. This approach, some argue, allows for a more complex and nuanced flavor profile, with each bite offering a surprise combination of ingredients.
The Verdict: Where Do the Toppings Go?
Ultimately, the question of where the toppings go on a Chicago deep-dish pizza is a matter of personal preference. While traditionalists argue that the classic topping order is the only way to go, non-traditionalists propose that deviating from this order can lead to exciting new flavor combinations and textures.
As with any great debate, there is no one “right” answer. The beauty of Chicago deep-dish pizza lies in its versatility, and the toppings can be arranged in a variety of ways to suit individual tastes.
Expert Opinions
We spoke with several pizza experts, including chefs, food critics, and pizzeria owners, to get their take on the great topping debate.
“I’m a traditionalist at heart,” says Lou Malnati, owner of Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, a Chicago institution. “I think the classic topping order is the way to go. It’s a tried-and-true method that allows each component to shine.”
On the other hand, Tony Gemignani, a renowned pizza chef and owner of Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco, argues that non-traditional topping orders can lead to exciting new flavor combinations. “I love experimenting with different topping orders,” he says. “It’s a great way to keep things fresh and exciting.”
The Future of Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
As the debate over topping order continues to rage, one thing is certain: Chicago deep-dish pizza will remain a beloved staple of the city’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a non-traditionalist, there’s no denying the allure of this cheesy, saucy, utterly delicious dish.
As pizzerias continue to innovate and experiment with new topping combinations and orders, the future of Chicago deep-dish pizza looks bright. Whether you’re a native Chicagoan or just visiting, be sure to try a slice (or three) of this iconic dish and join the debate for yourself.
| Pizzeria | Topping Order |
|---|---|
| Lou Malnati’s | Cheese, meats, vegetables, sauce |
| Pizzeria Uno | Cheese, meats, vegetables, sauce |
| Pequod’s Pizza | Cheese, meats, vegetables, sauce (with a caramelized crust) |
In conclusion, the great Chicago deep-dish pizza debate is a testament to the passion and dedication of pizza enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a non-traditionalist, there’s no denying the allure of this beloved dish. So go ahead, grab a slice, and join the debate for yourself.
What is the traditional way of placing toppings on a Chicago deep-dish pizza?
The traditional way of placing toppings on a Chicago deep-dish pizza is a topic of much debate. However, according to many locals and pizza enthusiasts, the classic way is to place the thick layers of cheese at the bottom, followed by various meats and vegetables, and finally, a thick tomato sauce on top. This unique order is said to have originated from the early days of deep-dish pizza in Chicago, where the thick crust and thick layers of cheese and sauce were designed to hold all the toppings together.
This traditional method of placing toppings is still widely practiced in many classic Chicago pizzerias, where the thick crust and thick layers of cheese and sauce are considered essential components of a true Chicago deep-dish pizza. However, it’s worth noting that modern variations and creative interpretations of the classic deep-dish pizza have led to different topping arrangements, which can be just as delicious and satisfying.
Why do some people prefer to put the sauce on the bottom of a Chicago deep-dish pizza?
Some people prefer to put the sauce on the bottom of a Chicago deep-dish pizza, arguing that it helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. By placing the sauce at the bottom, the crust is able to stay crispy and crunchy, even when topped with a thick layer of cheese and various meats and vegetables. This method is often preferred by those who like a crisper crust and a more balanced flavor profile.
However, it’s worth noting that placing the sauce on the bottom can also alter the overall flavor and texture of the pizza. Some argue that the sauce can become too caramelized and sweet, overpowering the other flavors on the pizza. Additionally, the crust may not be able to hold all the toppings together as well, leading to a less cohesive and satisfying pizza-eating experience.
Can you put any toppings on a Chicago deep-dish pizza?
While traditional Chicago deep-dish pizzas typically feature a range of classic toppings such as sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions, modern variations have led to a wide range of creative and unconventional toppings. From seafood and barbecue chicken to pineapple and prosciutto, the possibilities are endless when it comes to topping a Chicago deep-dish pizza.
However, it’s worth noting that some toppings may not be well-suited to the thick crust and thick layers of cheese and sauce that are characteristic of a Chicago deep-dish pizza. Delicate toppings such as fresh herbs or fragile vegetables may get lost or overpowered by the other flavors on the pizza. On the other hand, heartier toppings such as meats and robust vegetables can hold their own and add depth and complexity to the pizza.
How do you prevent the crust from becoming soggy on a Chicago deep-dish pizza?
Preventing the crust from becoming soggy is a common challenge when making a Chicago deep-dish pizza. One way to achieve a crispy crust is to pre-bake the crust before adding the toppings. This helps to create a crunchy exterior and a flaky interior, which can hold up well to the thick layers of cheese and sauce.
Another way to prevent a soggy crust is to use a combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal in the dough. The cornmeal helps to absorb excess moisture and create a crunchier texture, while the all-purpose flour provides structure and elasticity to the crust. Additionally, using a moderate amount of sauce and cheese can also help to prevent the crust from becoming too soggy or overwhelmed.
Can you make a Chicago deep-dish pizza at home?
Making a Chicago deep-dish pizza at home is definitely possible, but it may require some practice and patience to get it right. The key is to create a thick and flaky crust that can hold up to the thick layers of cheese and sauce. This can be achieved by using a combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal in the dough, and pre-baking the crust before adding the toppings.
Additionally, using a deep-dish pizza pan or a round cake pan can help to create the characteristic thick crust and crispy edges of a Chicago deep-dish pizza. It’s also important to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh cheese and sauce, and to cook the pizza at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. With a little practice and experimentation, you can create a delicious and authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza at home.
What is the difference between a Chicago deep-dish pizza and a stuffed pizza?
A Chicago deep-dish pizza and a stuffed pizza are two distinct styles of pizza that originated in Chicago. A deep-dish pizza features a thick crust and thick layers of cheese and sauce, with the toppings placed in a specific order. A stuffed pizza, on the other hand, features a thick crust that is topped with a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and then covered with a second layer of dough.
The main difference between the two styles is the way the toppings are arranged and the presence of a second layer of dough in a stuffed pizza. While both styles are delicious and satisfying, they offer distinct textures and flavor profiles that set them apart from one another. Deep-dish pizzas are often preferred by those who like a crispy crust and a more balanced flavor profile, while stuffed pizzas are often preferred by those who like a heartier and more filling pizza.
Is the Great Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza Debate a real thing?
The Great Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza Debate is a tongue-in-cheek term that refers to the ongoing discussion and debate among pizza enthusiasts and locals about the best way to make a Chicago deep-dish pizza. While it may not be a formal or official debate, the topic of deep-dish pizza toppings and cooking methods is a source of much passion and opinion among those who love this style of pizza.
The debate is fueled by the many variations and creative interpretations of the classic deep-dish pizza, as well as the strong opinions and traditions of local pizzerias and pizza enthusiasts. Whether you’re a traditionalist who prefers the classic topping arrangement or a modernist who likes to experiment with new ingredients and cooking methods, the Great Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza Debate is a fun and delicious way to engage with others who share your passion for pizza.