Pizza is easily one of the most popular food choices around the world, and it’s not hard to see why it has carved out such an important place in so many cultures. The perfect crust, the tangy tomato sauce, the delicious cheese and toppings; pizza has become an art form of its own in the culinary world.
And yet, we are still divided on the ideal method of preparing pizza: hand-tossed or hand-made pan pizza? In this article, we will compare and contrast the two methods of making pizza and provide you with everything you need to know before you make your next pizza order.
Hand Tossed Pizza
Hand-tossed pizza is one of the most popular pizza styles around the world. It is distinguished by its thin and crispy crust that is made by hand-stretching the dough to create an even layer before it is baked.
This type of pizza crust was originally created in Naples, Italy, and has since been popularized in the United States as New York-style pizza. Hand-tossed pizza is typically made with minimal ingredients, including just tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a few select toppings.
One of the most significant advantages that hand-tossed pizza offers is that it is usually cooked in a brick oven. This cooking method allows the crust to cook quickly and become crispy without burning, while also infusing the pizza with a delicious smoky flavor.
Furthermore, because hand-tossed pizza is so thin and light, it is a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. If you are watching your weight or keeping your caloric intake low, hand-tossed pizza can be an excellent choice for your next pizza party or meal.
Hand Made Pan Pizza
In contrast to hand-tossed pizza, hand-made pan pizza is known for its thick and doughy crust. The dough is typically allowed to rise, making it more fluffy and chewy than hand-tossed pizza crust.
Unlike hand-tossed pizza, hand-made pan pizza is cooked in a deep dish, which means that it traps the heat and allows the crust to cook more evenly. This cooking method also makes it possible to add more ingredients and toppings, without the fear of the crust getting too soggy or burning.
The toppings and ingredients used in hand-made pan pizza are typically more robust and varied, including meatballs, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and various cheeses. Hand-made pan pizza is often referred to as Chicago-style pizza, as it was originally made popular in Chicago and is now enjoyed across the country and around the world.
So Which is Better: Hand Tossed or Hand Made Pan Pizza?
While each pizza style has its unique features and advantages, the choice between hand-tossed or hand-made pan pizza ultimately comes down to personal preference.
If you love thin, crispy crust pizza with minimal toppings, hand-tossed pizza is the way to go. It’s a healthier option that satisfies your craving for pizza without ruining your diet.
On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for a thick, doughy crust with a more substantial coverage of toppings, hand-made pan pizza is perfect. Furthermore, its cooking style makes it easy to have multiple toppings, without the fear of the crust getting too soggy or not cooking correctly.
Both hand-tossed and hand-made pan pizza styles are delicious and satisfying, so next time you order your favorite pizza, pick your preferred style and experiment with various toppings to see what you like best.
In conclusion, whether you are a fan of thin and crispy or thick and doughy crusts, you can rest easy knowing that you have options when it comes to pizza. On a personal note, I think the real winner is the art of pizza-making, which has evolved over centuries and can be appreciated in both styles of preparation.
So, make your choice, grab a slice, and enjoy every delectable bite of one of the most popular foods globally.