The age-old debate between hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas has been a staple of the culinary world for years. Both styles have their loyal followings, and for good reason. Hand-tossed pizzas are known for their crispy crusts and tossed-in-the-air charm, while handmade pan pizzas boast a thick, crispy crust and a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. But which one reigns supreme? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of dough and explore the differences between these two beloved pizza styles.
A Brief History of Hand-Tossed Pizzas
Hand-tossed pizzas originated in Naples, Italy, where pizza makers would toss and spin dough into the air to create a thin, crispy crust. This traditional method allowed for a delicate balance of toppings and a crust that was both crunchy and chewy. As Italian immigrants brought their pizza-making skills to the United States, the hand-tossed style gained popularity and became a staple of American pizzerias. Classic hand-tossed pizza joints like Lombardi’s and Joe’s Pizza in New York City have been serving up some of the city’s best slices for decades.
A Brief History of Handmade Pan Pizzas
Handmade pan pizzas, on the other hand, have their roots in the Midwest, where thick, cheesy pizzas became a staple of local cuisine. The deep-dish pizza, with its thick crust and thick layers of cheese and toppings, became a signature style of Chicago pizza. However, handmade pan pizzas are more than just deep-dish pizzas. They’re made with a thick, crispy crust that’s formed by hand and cooked in a pan, creating a crunchy, buttery exterior and a soft, airy interior. Detroit-style pizza, with its square shape and thick, cheesy crust, is another example of a handmade pan pizza style that’s gained popularity in recent years.
Key Differences Between Hand-Tossed and Handmade Pan Pizzas
So, what sets these two pizza styles apart? Here are a few key differences:
- Crust thickness: Hand-tossed pizzas have a thin, delicate crust, while handmade pan pizzas have a thick, crispy crust.
- Crust texture: Hand-tossed pizzas have a crunchy, chewy crust, while handmade pan pizzas have a crunchy, buttery crust.
- Toppings: Hand-tossed pizzas can handle a wide range of toppings, from classic margherita to meat-lovers. Handmade pan pizzas, with their thick crust, are better suited to hearty, comfort-food style toppings like cheese, pepperoni, and sausage.
- Cooking method: Hand-tossed pizzas are cooked in a brick oven or on a stone, while handmade pan pizzas are cooked in a pan, often with a thick layer of oil or butter.
Taste Test: Hand-Tossed vs Handmade Pan Pizzas
To settle the debate once and for all, we conducted a taste test, pitting a classic hand-tossed pizza against a handmade pan pizza. The hand-tossed pizza was cooked in a brick oven and topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce. The handmade pan pizza was cooked in a pan with a thick layer of butter and topped with melted mozzarella, pepperoni, and sausage.
The results were surprising: both pizzas were delicious, but in different ways. The hand-tossed pizza was light, airy, and perfectly balanced, with a crust that was both crunchy and chewy. The handmade pan pizza, on the other hand, was rich, hearty, and indulgent, with a crust that was both crispy and buttery.
Which Style is Better?
Ultimately, the decision between hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas comes down to personal preference. If you like a light, airy crust and a wide range of toppings, hand-tossed might be the way to go. But if you prefer a thick, crispy crust and hearty, comfort-food style toppings, handmade pan is the better choice.
Conclusion
In the end, the debate between hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas is a matter of personal taste. Both styles have their loyal followings, and for good reason. Whether you’re a fan of the classic, tossed-in-the-air charm of hand-tossed pizzas or the thick, crispy crust of handmade pan pizzas, there’s no denying that both styles are delicious and worth trying. So next time you’re in the mood for pizza, why not try both? Your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas:
Q: What’s the difference between a hand-tossed pizza and a handmade pan pizza?
A: A hand-tossed pizza is made with a thin, delicate crust that’s tossed in the air and cooked in a brick oven or on a stone. A handmade pan pizza, on the other hand, is made with a thick, crispy crust that’s formed by hand and cooked in a pan.
Q: Which style of pizza is better?
A: It’s a matter of personal preference. If you like a light, airy crust and a wide range of toppings, hand-tossed might be the way to go. But if you prefer a thick, crispy crust and hearty, comfort-food style toppings, handmade pan is the better choice.
Q: Can I make hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas at home?
A: Yes! With a little practice and the right ingredients, you can make both hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas at home. Try using a pizza stone or brick oven for hand-tossed pizzas, and a cast-iron skillet or pizza pan for handmade pan pizzas.
Q: Are hand-tossed and handmade pan pizzas healthy?
A: Like any food, pizzas can be healthy or unhealthy depending on the ingredients and portion size. Opt for whole-wheat crust, plenty of vegetables, and lean protein sources to make your pizza a healthier option.