Pizza is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beloved and iconic dishes. With its origins dating back to ancient civilizations, this culinary masterpiece has evolved into countless regional variations, each with its own unique flavors and characteristics. Join us on a mouthwatering journey as we explore some of the world’s most iconic pizza pies, each offering a delightful slice of culinary culture.
Margherita – Naples, Italy: Our pizza adventure begins in Naples, Italy, the birthplace of pizza. The Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, is a true Neapolitan classic. Made with just three ingredients – fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves – it showcases the simplicity and authenticity of Neapolitan pizza. The thin, chewy crust and the vibrant, harmonious flavors of the toppings make it an unforgettable experience.
New York-Style Pizza – New York City, USA: Next, we hop across the Atlantic to the bustling streets of New York City, where New York-style pizza reigns supreme. Characterized by its large, foldable slices and a thin yet pliable crust, this iconic pie is the embodiment of the city’s fast-paced lifestyle. Topped with a generous layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, it is a quintessential slice of the Big Apple.
Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza – Chicago, USA: Venturing west to Chicago, we encounter a pizza style that is as unique as the city itself – the deep-dish pizza. With its towering, buttery crust, hearty tomato sauce, cheese, and an array of toppings, this pizza is a satisfying indulgence. It is often described as a pizza pie due to its resemblance to a savory, deep-filled pastry.
Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza – Rome, Italy: Rome offers a twist on traditional pizza with the Prosciutto and Arugula pizza. This gourmet delight features a thin, crispy crust topped with a light tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, paper-thin slices of prosciutto, and a generous pile of peppery arugula. The combination of flavors, from the salty prosciutto to the earthy arugula, creates a pizza that is both sophisticated and delightful.
Okonomiyaki Pizza – Osaka, Japan: Our journey takes a fascinating turn as we explore Japan’s unique take on pizza – the Okonomiyaki Pizza. This savory pancake-like creation is made from a batter of flour, grated yam, shredded cabbage, and a variety of toppings like seafood, pork, and cheese. It is then drizzled with a savory-sweet okonomiyaki sauce and adorned with mayonnaise and bonito flakes. This fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors is a true testament to the global appeal of pizza.
Lahmacun – Turkey: Traveling to Turkey, we discover Lahmacun, a Turkish pizza ha noi of sorts. It features a thin, unleavened dough base topped with a spicy minced meat mixture, typically a blend of lamb or beef mixed with herbs and seasonings. It is baked to perfection and often garnished with fresh vegetables, like tomatoes, onions, and parsley, before being rolled up and eaten as a flavorful street food delight.