Calzones

Calzone is a type of Italian cuisine that originated in Naples. A calzone is a folded pizza that resembles a large dumpling, made with yeast-leavened dough and filled with various cheeses, such as ricotta and mozzarella, as well as meat, vegetables, and other pizza toppings. The dough is folded over, sealed on one edge, and cooked. Traditionally, calzones are baked in an oven, but they can also be fried. The name "calzone" means "stocking" in Italian, reflecting its stuffed appearance.

History

The calzone's origins are commonly traced back to Naples in the 18th century, where it was a street food for working-class people. It was designed to be a portable meal that could be eaten without the need for cutlery, similar to its cousin, the pizza. Over time, the calzone spread across Italy and eventually around the world, with various regions adopting their own fillings and cooking methods.

Ingredients and Preparation

The base of a calzone is pizza dough, made from flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is rolled out into a circle and then filled on one half with ingredients. Common fillings include mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, ham, salami, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. After the filling is added, the other half of the dough is folded over to form a half-moon shape, and the edges are sealed.

Before baking, the top of the calzone may be brushed with olive oil, egg wash, or milk to create a golden crust. Some variations also include slashing the top to allow steam to escape during cooking. Calzones are typically baked at a high temperature until the crust is golden and the filling is hot.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of the calzone remains consistent, there are numerous regional variations. In the United States, calzones often include a wider variety of fillings, including pepperoni, sausage, and different types of cheese. Some versions also come with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

In Italy, calzones can vary significantly from one region to another. For example, in some areas, calzones are filled with local ingredients like anchovies, capers, and olives. There are also dessert versions of calzones, filled with Nutella, ricotta, and sugar.

Cultural Significance

Calzones hold a special place in Italian and Italian-American cuisine, symbolizing the adaptability and creativity of Italian cooking. They are a popular menu item in Italian restaurants around the world and are often made at home for a comforting meal.

See Also

• Pizza
• Italian cuisine
• Stromboli
• Panzerotti