The Not-So-Secret Society of Philly Cheesesteak...Pizzas? Unveiling the Mystical Philadelphia Pizza
Ah, Philadelphia. City of Brotherly Love, cheesesteaks that could feed a family, and... tomato pies? That's right, folks, Philly boasts a unique pizza style that's about as familiar to some as Rocky Balboa throwing a roundhouse kick at a pepperoni. But fear not, pizza pilgrims! This post will be your guide through the deliciously doughy underbelly of the City of Brotherly... Carbs?
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| What is Philadelphia Style Pizza |
It's Not Your Average Slice, It's a Squared Affair
Forget your New York thin crust or Chicago deep dish dreams. Philly pizza is all about the thicc (yes, with three Cs) square pie. We're talking a bready haven, sometimes reaching Sicilian levels of depth. But unlike its Sicilian cousin, the Philly pie gets its structure from a special kind of magic... or maybe just a really good rise.
The Great Sauce Debate: Undercover or Overexposed?
Now, here's where things get interesting. Unlike most pizzas where the sauce plays a supporting role, Philly pizza can be a bit of a sauce prima donna. There are two main camps:
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- The Underdog Under-Saucers: These traditionalists believe the sauce should be a mere whisper, a subtle hint on the underside of the dough. Think of it as a secret handshake for your taste buds.
- The Saucy Sirens: This group embraces the tang. Their pies are generously adorned with a vibrant tomato sauce that proudly sits on top of the cheese (yes, you read that right).
Whichever team you root for, remember, there's no wrong answer. Except maybe putting ketchup on it. Just kidding (mostly).
To Cheese, or Not to Cheese? That is the Question (Except it's Not Really)
Philly cheesesteak? Yes. Philly cheesesteak pizza? Not so much. Cheese is usually present, but it's a humble mozzarella, playing a supporting role to the magnificent dough and sauce.
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There might be a sprinkling of parmesan or romano for a salty kick, but that's about it. This pizza is all about celebrating the simple things in life, like a perfectly baked bready canvas.
So, You Want to Try Philly Pizza? How Do You Even Find It?
Great question! Philly pizza is less about fancy chains and more about hidden gem bakeries and pizzerias. Ask around, follow your nose (the garlicky aroma is a dead giveaway), and don't be afraid to explore those neighborhoods that haven't been Instagrammed to death.
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Here's a tip: If you see a place with a long line of grumpy-looking locals, that's probably a good sign.
FAQ: Philly Pizza - Frequently Asked Questions (from Outsiders)
How to find Philly pizza? See above! It's all about the local legends.
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How to eat Philly pizza? Fold it in half? Absolutely not! This is a sturdy beast, meant to be attacked with a fork and knife.
How to impress a Philadelphian with your pizza knowledge? Casually mention you prefer your tomato pie "under-sauced." They'll know you're one of the cool kids (maybe).
How to survive a trip to Philly without having a cheesesteak? It's a bold move, but with Philly pizza as an option, you might just pull it off.
How to recreate Philly pizza at home? We won't judge (much). There are plenty of online recipes, but remember, the magic lies in the atmosphere and the company. So grab some friends, crank up some Sinatra, and get ready to experience a pizza unlike any other.
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