How Do They Compare? An In-Depth Analysis Of New York Style Pizza Vs Chicago
What To Know
- The dough is made with a lower hydration level and is filled with a generous amount of cheese, sauce, and toppings before being baked in a deep dish pan.
- From layers of Italian sausage and ground beef to piles of bacon and vegetables, there’s no limit to the culinary adventures you can find on a deep dish pizza.
- If you prefer a thin, crispy crust with a tangy tomato sauce and simple toppings, then New York style pizza is the way to go.
When it comes to pizza, two iconic styles reign supreme: New York style and Chicago deep dish. Both have their devoted fans, and each has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from the other. But which one is truly the best? Let’s dive into the delicious details and settle this age-old debate once and for all.
Crust: Thin and Crispy vs. Thick and Doughy
The crust is the foundation of any pizza, and New York and Chicago styles couldn’t be more different. New York style pizzas are known for their thin, crispy crusts that shatter when you bite into them. The secret lies in the high-hydration dough, which is stretched out to a paper-thin layer before being baked at high temperatures. Chicago deep dish pizzas, on the other hand, feature thick, doughy crusts that are more like a bread bowl. The dough is made with a lower hydration level and is filled with a generous amount of cheese, sauce, and toppings before being baked in a deep dish pan.
Sauce: Tangy Tomato vs. Rich and Savory
The sauce is another crucial element that defines a pizza’s flavor profile. New York style pizzas typically have a tangy tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. It’s thin and spread evenly over the crust, allowing the other flavors to shine through. Chicago deep dish pizzas, on the other hand, have a thicker, richer sauce made from a combination of tomatoes, tomato paste, and various spices. It’s more like a hearty stew that complements the deep and flavorful crust.
Cheese: Mozzarella vs. Mozzarella and More
When it comes to cheese, New York style pizzas traditionally feature a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. The cheese is shredded and sprinkled evenly over the sauce, creating a gooey, stretchy layer that melts in your mouth. Chicago deep dish pizzas take the cheese game to a whole new level by adding layers of mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheese. The result is a cheesy, decadent masterpiece that will satisfy even the most demanding palate.
Toppings: Simple vs. Extravagant
New York style pizzas are known for their simplicity when it comes to toppings. The classic combination of pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and peppers is a crowd-pleaser. However, you can also find more creative topping combinations, such as white pizzas with ricotta and spinach or specialty pizzas with artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers. Chicago deep dish pizzas, on the other hand, are known for their over-the-top toppings. From layers of Italian sausage and ground beef to piles of bacon and vegetables, there’s no limit to the culinary adventures you can find on a deep dish pizza.
Size: Individual vs. Shareable
New York style pizzas are typically served as individual slices, making them perfect for a quick and easy meal. They’re also great for parties, as you can order a variety of slices to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Chicago deep dish pizzas, on the other hand, are designed to be shared. They’re large, round pizzas that are cut into square slices. The thick crust and generous toppings make them a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for a group gathering.
Price: Affordable vs. Luxurious
New York style pizzas are generally more affordable than Chicago deep dish pizzas. You can find a decent slice for around $3-$5, making it a budget-friendly option for a quick bite. Chicago deep dish pizzas, on the other hand, can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $15-$30. The larger size, thicker crust, and more elaborate toppings contribute to the higher price tag.
The Verdict: A Matter of Personal Preference
So, which pizza style is truly the best? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a thin, crispy crust with a tangy tomato sauce and simple toppings, then New York style pizza is the way to go. If you’re looking for a thick, doughy crust with a rich, savory sauce and over-the-top toppings, then Chicago deep dish pizza is your perfect match.
The Art of Enjoying Pizza
Regardless of your pizza preference, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a truly satisfying pizza experience:
- Fold it up: New York style pizzas are meant to be folded in half to make them easier to eat.
- Use a fork and knife: Chicago deep dish pizzas are so thick that you may need to use a fork and knife to cut and eat them.
- Share it: Pizza is best enjoyed with friends and family. Order a variety of slices or pizzas and share the deliciousness.
- Let it cool: Pizza is hot when it comes out of the oven, so let it cool slightly before taking a bite to avoid burning your mouth.
- Enjoy every bite: Pizza is a culinary delight that should be savored slowly and appreciated with every bite.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which pizza style has more calories?
Chicago deep dish pizzas tend to have more calories than New York style pizzas due to their thicker crust and more generous toppings.
2. Which pizza style is more popular?
New York style pizza is more popular overall, but Chicago deep dish pizza has a strong following in the Midwest.
3. Which pizza style is better for a quick meal?
New York style pizza is better for a quick meal as it’s served as individual slices that are easy to eat on the go.
4. Which pizza style is better for a party?
Chicago deep dish pizza is better for a party as it’s large and shareable, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.
5. Which pizza style is more expensive?
Chicago deep dish pizzas are generally more expensive than New York style pizzas due to their larger size, thicker crust, and more elaborate toppings.