At 11 Inch Pizza, a cherished pizza restaurant in the heart of Melbourne, Australia, we often encounter patrons curious about the difference between a classic pizza and its intriguing cousin, the calzone. Both dishes have deep roots in Italian cuisine and have garnered immense popularity worldwide.
Let’s dive into the delicious distinctions and surprising similarities between these two iconic dishes.
What is a Calzone?
A calzone, meaning ‘stocking’ or ‘trouser’ in Italian, is essentially a folded pizza. Originating in Naples, Italy, calzones are made by folding a pizza dough over its toppings, creating a half-moon shape. This delightful dish is then baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy outside with a warm, gooey centre.
Calzone fillings play a pivotal role in its flavour and texture. Traditional fillings include various cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella, meats such as salami or ham, vegetables, and often a tomato sauce. At 11 Inch Pizza, we offer a range of calzone pizza options, each with unique and mouth-watering fillings.
The Classic Pizza
Pizza, in its traditional form, is a flat, open-faced dish consisting of a yeast-based dough topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other toppings. Baked in an oven, it offers a crispy crust with a richly flavoured top layer, beloved by many across the globe.
Comparing Calzone and Pizza
Similarities in Ingredients
Both calzone and pizza share similar base ingredients – dough, cheese, and toppings. The primary difference lies in their preparation and presentation. While a pizza is open and flat, a calzone is folded, encasing its toppings.
Distinct Cooking Methods
The cooking method for calzones and pizzas slightly differs. Calzones require a different baking approach due to their folded nature, ensuring the inside is as perfectly cooked as the outside. Pizzas, being flat, cook more uniformly and usually have a crispier crust.
Taste and Texture
The taste of a calzone vs. a pizza can be quite similar, depending on the fillings and toppings used. However, the calzone’s enclosed structure creates a steamy, moist interior, which can make the flavours more intense. Pizzas, with their exposed toppings, offer a blend of textures and flavours with each bite.
Why Choose One Over the Other?
The Calzone Experience
Opting for a calzone can be a delightful experience for those who enjoy a heartier, more filling meal. Its enclosed form makes it less messy and an excellent option for on-the-go dining.
The Classic Appeal of Pizza
Pizza is a versatile choice, perfect for sharing and customising with a variety of toppings. Its open-faced nature allows for a more communal dining experience.
A World of Flavour at 11 Inch Pizza
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pizza or want to explore the rich, hearty flavours of a calzone, 11 Inch Pizza in Melbourne has you covered. Both dishes offer unique experiences in taste and texture, each with its own charm and appeal.
Next time you visit us, why not try both and decide for yourself? After all, in the world of Italian cuisine, the more the merrier!
