Pittsburgh Style Pizza: Recipe & Tradition
A Closer Look at Individual Pizzerias
Before delving into the broader characteristics of Pittsburgh-style pizza, let's examine some specific examples. Anecdotal evidence suggests a vibrant, competitive pizza scene, with establishments fiercely guarding their unique recipes. One pizzeria boasts a daily-made dough, undergoing a meticulous aging process for optimal flavor and crispness. This attention to detail, extending to homemade sauce and high-quality ingredients, highlights a commitment to excellence. Other notable mentions include Pamp;M in Arnold (with its reportedly quick sell-out), Phillippis in Natrona Heights (claiming lineage to a famous recipe), and Mama Lena II, renowned for its award-winning white pizza. These examples illustrate the diversity within the Pittsburgh pizza landscape, with each establishment offering a slightly different take on the classic.
The story of Beto's Pizza further complicates the picture. Serving an "Ohio Valley Pizza" style, likely originating in Steubenville, Ohio, around 1945, it showcases the regional influences and cross-pollination of pizza styles. The practice of using cold toppings, though its origins are shrouded in mystery, is a key differentiator, hinting at the unique evolution of this style.
Vallozzi's, however, adds an element of mystique. Only a select few know the secret to their pizza dough, a closely guarded family recipe passed down through generations. This illustrates the deeply personal and often secretive nature of some Pittsburgh pizza makers' approaches, emphasizing the artisanal aspects of the craft.
The Dough: Foundation of Pittsburgh Pizza
Many accounts emphasize the significance of the dough. While descriptions vary – some mention a slightly thicker crust, others allude to a wetter, oilier dough – the common thread is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Numerous online recipes highlight the importance of using lukewarm water for activating the yeast, emphasizing the need for precise temperature control to achieve the desired texture. The use of ingredients like bread flour, extra hydration (around 70%), and minimal yeast (as little as 1 gram per 4 pizzas) are recurring themes in recipes aiming for a soft, chewy crust, showcasing a range of techniques and preferences.
The choice between all-purpose and bread flour, as well as variations in yeast quantity, point to the flexibility within the "Pittsburgh style" and the individual preferences of pizza makers. The use of lard or oil, while not universally mentioned, also illustrates variations in techniques that impact the final texture and flavor profile.
Historical accounts, including newspaper articles from the 1940s and 50s, refer to pizza as a relatively novel "Italian delicacy" at the time, suggesting a gradual evolution of the pizza-making process and the development of what we now recognize as Pittsburgh style. These historical references provide context, highlighting the pizza's evolution from its early days to its current status as a beloved local staple.
Recipes frequently shared online range in complexity from simple, one-bowl methods requiring minimal kneading to more involved processes. This diversity reflects the accessibility of making Pittsburgh-style pizza, catering to both novice and experienced bakers. The ease of using pre-made dough or even incorporating unusual ingredients like leftover mashed potatoes further emphasizes the adaptability of the style.
Sauce and Toppings: Regional Variations and Preferences
While the dough forms the base, the sauce and toppings contribute significantly to the overall taste. Several accounts point to the use of a sweeter sauce, often in conjunction with provolone cheese, as a defining characteristic. This contrasts with other pizza styles, highlighting the distinctive flavor profile of Pittsburgh-style pizza. The use of cold toppings, particularly in the Ohio Valley style, stands out as a unique feature, though its origins remain somewhat unclear.
The range of toppings used, from classic meats and vegetables to more adventurous combinations, reflects the adaptability of the style. While no single topping combination definitively defines Pittsburgh-style pizza, the emphasis on high-quality ingredients, whether homemade or sourced from reputable suppliers, remains consistent.
The preference for provolone cheese, along with variations in sauce sweetness and topping combinations, illustrates the diversity within this style. This demonstrates that even within a geographically defined style, there's room for significant variation, reflecting the individual preferences and creative approaches of different pizza makers.
The "Pittsburgh Style": A Synthesis of Influences
Defining a distinct "Pittsburgh style" pizza proves challenging due to the diversity among local pizzerias. While there isn't a single, universally accepted recipe, certain common threads emerge. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, including homemade dough and sauce, is a recurring theme. The use of provolone cheese and a sweeter sauce is also frequently mentioned, pointing toward a distinctive flavor profile.
The thickness of the crust falls somewhere between a New York-style thin crust and a deep-dish Chicago-style, indicating a unique position within the broader spectrum of pizza styles. The incorporation of regional influences, such as the Ohio Valley style with its cold toppings, further enriches the complexity and diversity of Pittsburgh pizza.
The lack of a single, codified recipe should not be interpreted as a lack of identity. Instead, the variation reflects a vibrant culinary tradition, where innovation and individual expression are valued. The diverse approaches across different pizzerias demonstrate the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of this regional style, shaped by generations of pizza makers and their unique interpretations.
The "Pittsburgh style" is best understood as a collection of shared characteristics rather than a rigid set of rules. This flexibility allows for individual expression and continuous evolution, ensuring the style remains vibrant and relevant within the ever-changing culinary landscape.
Beyond the Pizza: Cultural Significance
Pittsburgh-style pizza transcends mere culinary indulgence; it's deeply intertwined with the city's cultural identity. The dedication of local pizza makers, their commitment to quality ingredients and traditional methods, reflects a sense of pride and community. The fiercely guarded recipes and the family legacies associated with many establishments highlight the personal investment and emotional connection to this food tradition.
The competition among pizzerias fuels innovation and ensures high standards, fostering a thriving culinary scene. The popularity of Pittsburgh-style pizza, both locally and among those familiar with the region, speaks to its cultural significance and its enduring appeal. It's more than just a meal; it's a symbol of local pride, a taste of home, and a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage.
The stories behind individual pizzerias, the historical context of pizza's arrival in Pittsburgh, and the evolving interpretations of the “style” all contribute to the richer tapestry of Pittsburgh’s culinary narrative; The ongoing evolution of the style reflects the city's dynamic and ever-changing character.
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