Philadelphia, PA - What is Detroit-style pizza? This rectangular style of pizza is traditionally topped with tomato sauce and Wisconsin brick cheese, which extends to the edges. This pizza is rectangular because of its thick crust, and the toppings usually consist of meat, vegetables, and cheese. This classic pie is also topped with mozzarella or Swiss cheese. You can find this type of pizza in most Italian restaurants and some specialty pizzerias.
Detroit-Style Pizza: The Crispy, Cheesy, Square You Need to Know
Detroit-Style Pizza is having a moment. This unique pizza, born in the Motor City, is gaining popularity across the country, and for good reason. With its signature thick, crispy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and distinctive rectangular shape, Detroit-Style Pizza offers a satisfying and flavorful experience that sets it apart from other pizza styles. This article explores what makes Detroit-Style Pizza unique, its origins, and how it differs from other deep-dish pizzas.
Defining Detroit-Style Pizza: Key Characteristics
Detroit-Style Pizza is characterized by several key features:
- Rectangular Shape: Unlike the round pies of traditional pizzas, Detroit-Style Pizza is baked in a rectangular pan, resulting in a square or rectangular shape.
- Thick, Crispy Crust: The crust is thick, yet surprisingly airy and light, with a remarkably crispy bottom and edges. This is achieved through a high hydration dough and the unique baking process.
- Caramelized Cheese Edges: A crucial element is the "frico" – the crispy, caramelized cheese that extends up the sides of the pan and forms a lacy, browned edge. This is achieved by spreading the cheese all the way to the edges of the pan.
- Sauce On Top (Usually): Traditionally, Detroit-Style Pizza features the tomato sauce on top of the cheese and toppings, often in racing stripes. This helps keep the crust crispy. However, some variations exist, with the sauce underneath.
- Wisconsin Brick Cheese: The preferred cheese is typically Wisconsin brick cheese, known for its buttery flavor and excellent melting properties. It contributes to the signature crispy cheese edge.
- Pepperoni Under the Cheese: Often, the pepperoni is placed under the cheese, allowing it to become slightly crispy and release its flavorful oils into the crust.
The Origins of Detroit-Style Pizza: From Auto Parts to Pizza Pans
The unique shape and style of Detroit-Style Pizza have a surprisingly industrial origin. In the mid-20th century (around 1946), pizzerias in Detroit began using blue steel pans that were originally designed to hold small parts in auto factories. These rectangular pans, with their sloped sides, proved to be ideal for creating the signature crispy crust and caramelized cheese edges.
Detroit-Style Pizza vs. Chicago Deep-Dish: Key Differences
It's important to distinguish Detroit-Style Pizza from Chicago deep-dish pizza, as they are often confused. Here are the key differences:
- Shape: Detroit-Style is rectangular; Chicago deep-dish is round.
- Crust: Detroit-Style has a thick, airy, and crispy crust, particularly at the edges. Chicago deep-dish has a very thick, almost pie-like, crust that lines the sides of a deep pan.
- Sauce Placement: Detroit-Style usually places the sauce on top of the cheese (though variations exist). Chicago deep-dish always places the sauce on top of the cheese, creating a "layered" effect.
- Cheese: Detroit-Style often uses Wisconsin brick cheese; Chicago deep-dish typically uses mozzarella.
- Overall Style: Detroit-style is more akin to a thick-crust Sicilian pizza, but with its own unique characteristics. Chicago deep-dish is a true "deep-dish" pizza, almost like a savory pie.
Why We Love Detroit-Style Pizza (and Why You Will Too):
Detroit-Style Pizza offers a unique and satisfying pizza experience. The light, airy dough, combined with the crackling, near-black edges of browned cheese, creates a textural masterpiece. The layering of toppings, often with pepperoni under the cheese and sauce on top, allows for a delicious interplay of flavors. It's a hearty, flavorful, and visually appealing pizza that's quickly gaining national recognition.
Detroit-Style Pizza is more than just a regional specialty; it's a distinct and delicious style of pizza that deserves its growing popularity. Its unique combination of crispy crust, caramelized cheese, and flavorful toppings makes it a must-try for any pizza lover. So, the next time you're craving a truly satisfying pizza experience, seek out a Detroit-Style pie and discover the magic of the Motor City's culinary gem.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly
