What Is Sicilian Pizza—And How Is It Different From Other Pizzas?

Just think of it as focaccia with toppings.

It doesn’t get much more traditional (or delicious) than Sicilian-style. Hearty and filling, the square-shaped pie is a staple on Italian menus and in kitchens around the world. But what exactly is Sicilian-style pizza—and where does it come from? Here’s what you need to know:

What Is Sicilian-Style Pizza?

Sicilian-style pizza boasts a thick, spongy dough reminiscent of focaccia with a deep, square-pan preparation. Historically, its thick, savory sauce was created by cooking down crushed tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, salt, and olive oil. Toppings of anchovies, oregano, bread crumbs, and caciocavallo (a soft, semi-strong flavored cheese similar in taste to aged provolone) impart additional bold flavors.

Sicilian-Style Pizza History

Modern pizza was born in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century as an inexpensive and hearty meal for working class Neapolitans. From that humble start evolved several variations due to near-constant experiments to enhance the flavor. The deep-dish version commonly known as Sicilian-style pizza originated in Sicily during the 19th century.

Later, as Sicilians immigrated to the U.S., they disembarked at Ellis Island carrying big dreams and a new world of culinary experiences, including their unique taste in pizza. Almost immediately, bakers in New York began experimenting with the Sicilian-style pie in various ways.

They replaced the thick, oniony sauce with a basic tomato sauce and the caciocavallo cheese with mozzarella because of the cheese’s availability in New York. The thick, square pizza quickly became a hit and was especially popular among World War II soldiers returning from Italy. It soon spread beyond state borders and can now be enjoyed in all 50 states.

How to Make Sicilian-Style Pizza

Craving Sicilian-style pizza right now? Check out one of our top-rated recipes—but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

1. Make the dough: Activate the yeast, then add the remaining pizza dough ingredients. Knead until smooth and elastic. Stretch the dough into an oiled square or rectangular pan. Let rise until doubled in size, then press out the excess air and stretch dough all the way to the edges of the pan.

2. Make the sauce: Simmer prepared sauce with spices until it is warmed through and the flavors are melded.

3. Assemble the pizza: Spread sauce over dough and add toppings.

4. Bake the pizza: Bake until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted. Cool slightly, then slice into square pieces. 
   

Read the original article on All Recipes.