When it comes to delightful Italian-American cuisine, calzones and strombolis often leave many food enthusiasts confused. Both are delicious, doughy creations filled with savory ingredients, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Let’s delve into what makes each of these dishes unique and provide some guidance on which one might be your perfect choice.
Calzones vs. Strombolis: What’s the Difference and Which One to Choose?
Origins and History
Calzones: Traditionally, calzones were a portable meal designed for convenience, serving as an all-in-one meal on the go. In Italy, they are generally smaller than the calzones typically found in American eateries.
Strombolis: Strombolis are believed to have originated in the United States, specifically in Philadelphia during the 1950s. They get their name from the Italian movie "Stromboli," further reflecting their Italian-American roots.
Shape and Construction
Calzones are typically folded into a half-moon shape. They are essentially stuffed pizzas, where the dough is folded over the filling and sealed, often with a crimped edge. Strombolis are rolled into a cylindrical shape, akin to a burrito. The dough wraps around the filling, creating a long roll, which is then baked.
Ingredients
Calzones traditionally contain ricotta cheese along with mozzarella and sometimes meats, vegetables, or other ingredients. They are served with marinara sauce on the side. Strombolis are generally packed with mozzarella, meats like pepperoni, salami, or sausage, and sometimes vegetables. The sauce is often baked inside or drizzled over the slice.
Which One to Choose?
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide which one to indulge in? Choose a calzone if you love cheese, especially ricotta, as it’s a hallmark of the traditional calzone. If you prefer dipping, calzones are perfect for those who like to dunk their bites into marinara. Choose a stromboli if you want everything together with sauce and fillings all wrapped up. If you're feeding a crowd, strombolis are often sliced into spiral segments, making them ideal for sharing.
Both calzones and strombolis offer a delightful baked dough experience, rich with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you choose a calzone with its cheesy, dippable goodness or a stromboli with its compact, roll-up surprise, you’re in for a treat at Allyanna’s Pizzeria!