Chicago Style Pizza: It's Not Just Pizza, It's a Commitment
Deep Dish Dreams
Let's talk about Chicago-style pizza. Not just pizza, mind you. This is a culinary commitment, a gastronomic odyssey, a full-on relationship. We're not dealing with a flimsy, floppy New York slice here. No, sir. This is a deep-dish behemoth, a towering edifice of dough, cheese, and sauce. It's like a pizza had a baby with a casserole, and that baby grew up to be a champion weightlifter.
Layers of Love (or at least cheese)
So, what sets Chicago-style pizza apart from its flatbread cousins? Well, for starters, it's got layers. Lots of layers. We're talking a buttery crust that's more like a bowl than a base, then a mountain of cheese, followed by a chunky tomato sauce, and finally, the toppings. It's like building a pizza Jenga tower, but edible and delicious.
Important Note: The order of ingredients is crucial. Cheese before sauce, people! It's a Chicago thing.
Forget the Knife and Fork (Maybe)
Eating Chicago-style pizza is an experience. You'll need a fork, a knife, and probably a bib. Some brave souls might attempt it with their hands, but let's be real, it's messy. And let's not forget the leftovers. Cold Chicago pizza is a thing of beauty, and it's even better the next day.
Tavern-Style: The Thin Crust Rebel
While deep dish gets all the glory, let's not forget about Chicago's other pizza pride: tavern-style. This is the thin crust underdog, crispy and delicious. It's cut into squares, not slices, and it's perfect for sharing (or not).
How to Become a Chicago Pizza Connoisseur
Now that you're a Chicago pizza expert (or at least have a good start), here are some quick tips:
- How to order a Chicago-style pizza: Be prepared to wait. Good deep-dish takes time.
- How to eat a Chicago-style pizza: Use utensils. Don't be shy about asking for extra napkins.
- How to reheat Chicago-style pizza: Oven is best. Microwave is a crime against pizza.
- How to tell if a pizza is truly Chicago-style: Check the order of the layers. Cheese before sauce is non-negotiable.
- How to appreciate the beauty of a Chicago-style pizza: Take a moment to admire its grandeur before digging in.
So there you have it. Chicago-style pizza: a culinary masterpiece that demands respect.
