Trenton tomato pie

Trenton Tomato Pie is a type of pizza that originated in the city of Trenton, New Jersey. Unlike traditional pizza, the Trenton Tomato Pie is characterized by its unique assembly, where cheese and toppings are placed on the dough first, followed by a generous layer of tomato sauce.

History

The Trenton Tomato Pie was first introduced in the early 20th century by Italian immigrant Joe's Tomato Pies, which opened in 1910. The establishment, considered the second oldest pizzeria in the United States, popularized the inverted style of pizza making that has since become a signature of the Trenton area.

Characteristics

The defining feature of the Trenton Tomato Pie is its "upside-down" construction. The pie begins with a thin, crispy crust, followed by a layer of full-fat mozzarella cheese. Toppings are then added, typically including a variety of meats and vegetables. The pie is finished with a hearty topping of crushed tomatoes, which forms a sauce-like layer on top. This method of layering allows the crust to stay crispy, while the toppings are baked directly into the cheese and the tomato topping provides a fresh, robust flavor.

Popularity

While the Trenton Tomato Pie is a staple in its city of origin, its popularity has spread to other parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Many pizzerias in these areas offer their own version of the pie, and it has become a beloved regional specialty.

See Also

• Pizza in the United States
• New Jersey cuisine
• List of regional dishes of the United States