When it comes to pizza, there are endless debates about the best toppings, the best crust, and the best way to bake it. However, one common dilemma that pizza lovers face is whether to opt for Dominos’ Pan Pizza or Hand Tossed. As one of the largest pizza chains in the world, Dominos has built a reputation for delivering piping hot pizzas to your doorstep. However, when it comes to Pan Pizza vs. Hand Tossed, which one should you choose? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the two styles and help you make an informed choice.
What is Pan Pizza?
Pan Pizza is a deep-dish pizza style that is baked in a deep dish pan. The pizza dough is pressed, patted, or stretched to fit the pan, creating a thick crust that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toppings are then added over the crust, and finally, a layer of cheese is added on top. The pizza is then baked until it’s golden brown, resulting in a pizza with a thick, bread-like crust.
What is Hand Tossed?
Hand Tossed pizza is a traditional pizza style that is tossed by hand to stretch and shape the dough. The pizza crust is thinner than the Pan Pizza, with a crispy exterior and a chewy interior. The toppings are added over the crust, and the pizza is baked in a standard pizza oven until it’s cooked to perfection.
Differences between Pan Pizza and Hand Tossed
1. Thickness
The primary difference between the two pizza styles is the thickness of the crust. Pan Pizza has a thick crust, while the Hand Tossed has a thinner crust. If you prefer a thicker, more substantial crust, then Pan Pizza is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a lighter, crispier crust, then Hand Tossed is your best bet.
2. Toppings
Both Pan Pizza and Hand Tossed pizza can be topped with a wide variety of ingredients, from classic pepperoni to exotic vegetables. However, due to the difference in crust thickness, the two styles may require different toppings. For instance, the thicker crust of Pan Pizza can hold more toppings and can handle heavier ingredients such as meatballs or sausage. The thinner crust of Hand Tossed, on the other hand, may be better suited to lighter toppings such as fresh basil or sautéed mushrooms.
3. Baking Method
Another crucial difference between Pan Pizza and Hand Tossed is the baking method. Pan Pizza is baked in a deep dish pan, which helps to create a crispy crust that is soft on the inside. The pan also retains more heat, allowing the cheese to melt and the toppings to cook evenly. Hand Tossed, on the other hand, is baked directly on a pizza stone, resulting in a crust that is crisp and chewy with a slightly charred bottom.
4. Serving Size
Pan Pizza is typically cut into small slices, making it perfect for sharing with a group of friends or family. However, due to its thick crust, it may be more filling than Hand Tossed. Hand Tossed, on the other hand, can be sliced into larger portions, making it ideal for individual servings.
Which is Better: Pan Pizza or Hand Tossed?
Ultimately, the choice between Pan Pizza and Hand Tossed boils down to personal preference. If you prefer a pizza with a thick, bread-like crust that can hold a lot of toppings, then Pan Pizza is perfect for you. However, if you prefer a lighter, crispier crust, then Hand Tossed is the way to go. It’s also worth noting that both styles of pizza can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
In the end, the debate between Pan Pizza and Hand Tossed comes down to what you’re looking for in a pizza. Both styles have their unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider your preferences before making a choice. Whether you’re a die-hard Pan Pizza fan or a Hand Tossed enthusiast, you can rest assured that Dominos has got you covered. So, the next time you’re hungry for a hot, delicious pizza, why not try both and see which one you like best?