Calzone vs Stromboli: What’s the Difference?
If you’re a pizza lover, you’ve probably heard of calzone and stromboli. Both of these dishes are Italian in origin and feature dough and cheese as their main ingredients, but they are not the same thing. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what sets calzone and stromboli apart, as well as their origins, ingredients, and preparation methods.
What is a Calzone?
A calzone is a baked turnover that originated in Naples, Italy. It’s essentially a folded pizza, made with pizza dough that’s folded in half and stuffed with various fillings. The dough is then sealed around the edges to create a pocket, which is then baked until crispy on the outside and hot and gooey on the inside.
Traditionally, calzones are filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and ham or salami, but there are countless variations that use different meats, vegetables, and cheeses. Some popular fillings include spinach, ricotta cheese, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
What is a Stromboli?
Stromboli, on the other hand, is a type of rolled-up pizza that originated in the United States, specifically in Philadelphia. It’s made by rolling out pizza dough, adding sauce, cheese, and fillings, and then rolling it up tightly into a log shape. The log is then baked until crispy on the outside and hot and gooey on the inside.
Stromboli fillings can vary widely, but some popular ones include Italian sausage, pepperoni, salami, ham, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Some strombolis also include ricotta cheese or other types of cheese.
Calzone vs Stromboli: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between calzone and stromboli is the way they are prepared and presented. Calzones are folded in half to create a pocket, while strombolis are rolled up like a log. This affects the texture and the way the fillings are distributed throughout the dish.
Calzones are generally thicker and denser than strombolis because they contain more dough. The dough is folded around the fillings, creating a pocket that traps steam and moisture inside. This makes the inside of the calzone hot and gooey, while the outside is crispy and golden-brown.
Strombolis, on the other hand, are thinner and more elongated than calzones. The fillings are rolled up inside the dough, creating a spiral of ingredients that’s sliced into pieces for serving. This makes stromboli a great choice for sharing, as it can be cut into multiple portions.
Which is Better: Calzone or Stromboli?
When it comes to choosing between calzone and stromboli, it really comes down to personal preference. Both dishes are delicious and satisfying, and each has its own unique texture and flavor profile.
Calzones are a great choice for those who love a thick, doughy crust and a pocket full of hot, melty cheese and toppings. They’re also a good option if you’re looking for a more substantial meal, as they tend to be larger than strombolis.
Strombolis, on the other hand, are a great choice if you prefer a thinner, crispier crust and a more even distribution of fillings throughout the dish. They’re also a good option if you’re looking for a snack or appetizer, as they can be cut into smaller portions.
In the end, whether you choose calzone or stromboli, you can’t go wrong. Both dishes are delicious and satisfying, and they’re sure to please any pizza lover.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both calzone and stromboli share similarities in their Italian origins and use of dough and cheese as main ingredients, they are distinct dishes with different preparation methods, textures, and flavor profiles. Calzones are folded in half to create a pocket, while strombolis are rolled up like a log, affecting their thickness, density, and the way fillings are distributed. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, but both are delicious and satisfying options for pizza lovers. Understanding the differences between calzone and stromboli can help you appreciate and enjoy these dishes even more.
