Minnesota-style pizza

Minneapolis-style pizza

Minnesota-style pizza is a unique regional variation of pizza that originated in the state of Minnesota, United States. This style of pizza is characterized by its thin, cracker-like crust, generous toppings, and a distinctive square or rectangular cut.

Characteristics

Minnesota-style pizza is known for its thin and crispy crust, which is often compared to a cracker. The dough is typically rolled out very thin and baked until it achieves a crunchy texture. Unlike other styles of pizza, the crust of Minnesota-style pizza is not chewy or doughy.

The toppings on Minnesota-style pizza are usually plentiful and can include a variety of ingredients such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. The cheese used is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone, which melts to a creamy consistency.

One of the most distinctive features of Minnesota-style pizza is the way it is cut. Instead of the traditional triangular slices, this pizza is cut into small, square or rectangular pieces, often referred to as "party cut" or "tavern cut." This method of cutting makes it easier to share among a group of people.

History

The origins of Minnesota-style pizza can be traced back to the mid-20th century when Italian immigrants settled in the region and began opening pizzerias. These early pizzerias adapted their recipes to suit local tastes and available ingredients, leading to the development of this unique style.

One of the most well-known establishments that popularized Minnesota-style pizza is Red's Savoy Pizza, which opened in Saint Paul, Minnesota in 1965. The restaurant became famous for its thin-crust pizza and generous toppings, helping to cement the style's popularity in the region.

Comparison with Other Styles

Minnesota-style pizza is often compared to other regional styles such as Chicago-style pizza and New York-style pizza. Unlike the deep-dish crust of Chicago-style pizza or the foldable slices of New York-style pizza, Minnesota-style pizza offers a distinctively thin and crispy crust with a unique cutting method.

Popular Pizzerias

Several pizzerias in Minnesota are renowned for their Minnesota-style pizza, including:

• Red's Savoy Pizza
• Carbone's Pizzeria
• Randy's Premier Pizza

These establishments have become local favorites and are known for their adherence to the traditional characteristics of Minnesota-style pizza.

See Also

• Pizza in the United States
• List of pizza varieties by country
• Italian-American cuisine