St. Louis Style Pizza: A Unique Regional Pizza Delight

What Makes St. Louis Style Pizza Different from Other Pizzas?

St. Louis style pizza is a unique and distinct pizza variety that sets itself apart from the traditional pizzas we are all familiar with. One of the most noticeable differences is the crust. St. Louis style pizza features a thin, cracker-like crust that is unleavened and crisp. It is made with a special blend of flour, yeast, and water, resulting in a texture that is both delicate and sturdy.

Another defining characteristic of St. Louis style pizza is the use of Provel cheese. This cheese is a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone, resulting in a smooth and creamy flavor that is distinctively different from the mozzarella used in traditional pizzas. The Provel cheese melts perfectly, giving the pizza a gooey, cheesy goodness that is simply mouthwatering.

St. Louis style pizza also tends to have a unique preparation method. Instead of the typical round shape, it is often cut into squares or rectangles, commonly known as “party cut.” This style of cutting allows every bite to have an equal distribution of toppings and cheese, ensuring a consistent flavor experience throughout the entire pizza.

In addition to the crust and cheese, the toppings of St. Louis style pizza also contribute to its distinctiveness. Popular toppings include Italian sausage, green peppers, and onions, which add a savory and tangy burst of flavor. The combination of all these elements creates a pizza that is like no other, with a taste that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning pizza connoisseurs.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional pizzas or looking to try something new, St. Louis style pizza is definitely worth exploring. Its unique crust, Provel cheese, and distinctive toppings come together to create a culinary experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. So, the next time you’re craving pizza, why not venture out and give St. Louis style pizza a try? You might just discover a new favorite that will have you coming back for more.

The History and Origins of St. Louis Style Pizza

St. Louis style pizza has a rich history that traces back to its birthplace in the early 20th century. Legend has it that Italian immigrants who settled in St. Louis brought their traditional pizza-making techniques with them. However, due to the lack of traditional ingredients like mozzarella cheese, they had to adapt and make do with what they had. This led to the unique characteristics that define St. Louis style pizza today.

One of the key differences in the history of St. Louis style pizza is the use of a special cheese blend called Provel. This unique combination of cheddar, swiss, and provolone cheeses was created in the 1940s specifically for St. Louis style pizza. The creamy, tangy flavor and incredibly gooey texture of Provel cheese quickly became a staple in St. Louis pizzerias, setting it apart from other regional pizza styles. The history of St. Louis style pizza is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to the city, resulting in a pizza unlike any other.

The Key Ingredients of St. Louis Style Pizza

The key ingredients of St. Louis Style Pizza set it apart from other pizza styles and give it a distinct taste. One of the most noticeable differences is the use of a unique type of cheese called Provel. Provel is a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. Its flavor is slightly tangy, adding a delicious twist to every bite of St. Louis Style Pizza.

Another important ingredient in this style of pizza is the unleavened, thin, and crispy crust. Made with a blend of all-purpose and semolina flour, the crust is rolled out incredibly thin and then cooked at a high temperature. This creates a crunchy texture that is a signature characteristic of St. Louis Style Pizza. The absence of yeast in the dough makes the crust less bread-like and allows the toppings and flavors to take center stage.

The Unique Characteristics of St. Louis Style Pizza Crust

The crust of St. Louis-style pizza is undoubtedly one of its most distinctive features. Unlike traditional pizzas, this crust is thin and crisp, with a unique texture that sets it apart. It’s almost cracker-like, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. This thinness allows the crust to cook quickly and evenly, ensuring a perfectly golden crust that doesn’t detract from the flavors of the toppings.

Another characteristic of St. Louis-style pizza crust is its lightness. It’s not heavy or doughy like some other pizza crusts. Instead, it has a delicate and airy quality that enhances the overall eating experience. This lightness is achieved through the use of a specific combination of ingredients and preparation methods. Whether you prefer a plain cheese pizza or one loaded with toppings, the crust of St. Louis-style pizza provides a perfect foundation that complements the flavors and textures of every bite.

• The crust of St. Louis-style pizza is thin and crisp, with a unique texture that sets it apart.
• It has a cracker-like consistency, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• The thinness allows the crust to cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a perfectly golden crust.
• Unlike other pizza crusts, St. Louis-style pizza crust doesn’t overpower the flavors of the toppings.
• St. Louis-style pizza crust is light and airy, enhancing the overall eating experience.
• This lightness is achieved through specific ingredients and preparation methods.
• Whether you prefer plain cheese or loaded toppings, the crust complements the flavors and textures of every bite.

Exploring the Toppings and Cheese of St. Louis Style Pizza

When it comes to toppings and cheese, St. Louis style pizza does not disappoint. While traditional pizza usually features a hefty amount of mozzarella, St. Louis style pizza takes a different approach. Provel cheese is the star of the show here, a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. This unique blend creates a smooth, slightly smoky flavor that complements the other toppings perfectly.

The toppings on St. Louis style pizza are diverse, offering something for everyone. From classic favorites like pepperoni and sausage to more adventurous options like bacon, mushrooms, and onions, the possibilities are endless. Some pizzerias even offer specialty toppings like barbecue chicken or provel-stuffed crust. With St. Louis style pizza, you can truly customize your pie to suit your taste buds. So go ahead and pile on as many toppings as your heart desires!

The Role of Provel Cheese in St. Louis Style Pizza

Provel cheese plays a crucial role in creating the unique and distinct flavor of St. Louis style pizza. This cheese, which was specifically developed in the St. Louis area, is a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. It has a smooth and creamy texture, with a slightly tangy and nutty taste.

One of the reasons why Provel cheese is used in St. Louis style pizza is its incredible meltability. When the pizza is cooked, the Provel cheese becomes gooey and stringy, covering the entire pizza with its deliciousness. It adds a rich and cheesy layer to each bite, complementing the other ingredients perfectly. Some people describe its taste as being similar to a mix of white American, mozzarella, and Swiss cheese, making it a truly unique and essential component of St. Louis style pizza.

A Guide to Ordering and Enjoying St. Louis Style Pizza

When it comes to ordering and enjoying St. Louis style pizza, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the most important decision you’ll need to make is choosing a reputable pizzeria that specializes in this unique style. St. Louis style pizza is not as widely known or available as its New York or Chicago counterparts, so it’s crucial to do a little research and find a place that does it justice.

Once you’ve found the perfect pizzeria, it’s time to dive into the menu and explore the different offerings. St. Louis style pizza is characterized by its ultra-thin, cracker-like crust, so be sure to specify that you want a thin crust when placing your order. The toppings are also distinctive, with options like Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, and even barbecue pork. And of course, we can’t forget the famous Provel cheese, a blend of Cheddar, Swiss, and Provolone that gives St. Louis style pizza its signature gooey and melty goodness. So go ahead, place your order and savor the one-of-a-kind flavors of St. Louis style pizza!

Where to Find the Best St. Louis Style Pizza in the City

If you find yourself in St. Louis and craving a delicious St. Louis-style pizza, you’re in luck! This city is home to numerous pizzerias that serve up this unique and mouthwatering specialty. One popular spot is Imo’s Pizza, which has been a local favorite since 1964. Known for their thin, crispy crust and signature Provel cheese blend, Imo’s offers a variety of toppings to suit every taste. Another top choice is Cecil Whittaker’s Pizza, a family-owned establishment that has been serving up St. Louis-style pies for over 35 years. Their pizzas are known for their generous cheese portions and crispy, cracker-like crust. With multiple locations around the city, it’s easy to satisfy your pizza cravings wherever you are in St. Louis.

For a more casual dining experience, head over to Fortel’s Pizza Den, a cozy neighborhood joint that has been dishing out St. Louis-style pizzas since 1973. Their thin, flaky crust is loaded with a delicious mix of toppings, and their friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a slice with friends. Another hidden gem is the Epic Pizza & Subs, where you can indulge in their mouthwatering St. Louis-style pizza that features a unique blend of spices and toppings. With their focus on quality ingredients and attention to detail, you’re sure to find a pizza that will satisfy your cravings. So, if you’re looking for the best St. Louis-style pizza in the city, be sure to check out these local favorites and get ready for a slice of perfection!

How to Make St. Louis Style Pizza at Home

The thought of making St. Louis style pizza at home may seem daunting, but with a little guidance, you’ll be able to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. The first step is to gather the key ingredients: a thin, unleavened crust, tangy provel cheese, and your choice of toppings. In terms of the crust, you can either make it from scratch using a recipe that calls for a combination of flour, yeast, and water, or you can opt for a store-bought option if you’re short on time.

Once you have your crust ready, it’s time to assemble your pizza. Start by spreading a thin layer of tomato sauce on the crust, followed by a generous sprinkling of provel cheese. Provel cheese is a unique blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheese that gives St. Louis style pizza its signature flavor. Next, add your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, or bell peppers. Finally, bake your pizza in a hot oven until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. And there you have it – your very own St. Louis style pizza that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

Fun and Interesting Facts About St. Louis Style Pizza

St. Louis style pizza is not only unique in taste but also in its history. Did you know that it originated in the Italian-American neighborhoods of St. Louis during the 20th century? It was born out of the creativity and resourcefulness of these communities, who adapted their traditional pizza recipes to the ingredients readily available in the Midwest.

One fun fact about St. Louis style pizza is its unconventional cheese choice. Instead of the traditional mozzarella, it is topped with a blend of white cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheese known as Provel. This unique cheese gives the pizza a distinct flavor and texture that sets it apart from other styles. Love it or hate it, Provel is an essential part of the St. Louis style pizza experience – a delightful quirk that pizza enthusiasts can’t resist.

What makes St. Louis Style Pizza different from other pizzas?

St. Louis Style Pizza is known for its thin, cracker-like crust, square shape, and use of Provel cheese, which is a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone.

Where did St. Louis Style Pizza originate from?

St. Louis Style Pizza has its origins in the Italian neighborhoods of St. Louis, Missouri, in the early 20th century.

What are the key ingredients used in St. Louis Style Pizza?

The key ingredients in St. Louis Style Pizza include a thin crust made with a special blend of flour, yeast, and water, Provel cheese, and a tangy tomato sauce.

What makes the crust of St. Louis Style Pizza unique?

The crust of St. Louis Style Pizza is characterized by its thinness and crispiness, often referred to as a “cracker crust.” It is also cut into square pieces instead of traditional triangular slices.

What are the typical toppings and cheese used on St. Louis Style Pizza?

St. Louis Style Pizza is often topped with traditional pizza toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions. It is also known for its generous amount of Provel cheese.

What is the role of Provel cheese in St. Louis Style Pizza?

Provel cheese is a signature ingredient in St. Louis Style Pizza. It has a unique creamy and tangy flavor that melts perfectly, giving the pizza a distinct taste.

Where can I find the best St. Louis Style Pizza in the city?

There are many great places to enjoy St. Louis Style Pizza in the city, but some popular options include Imo’s Pizza, Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria, and Pi Pizzeria.

Can I make St. Louis Style Pizza at home?

Absolutely! Making St. Louis Style Pizza at home is a fun and delicious adventure. Just follow a recipe that includes the key ingredients and techniques unique to this style of pizza.

Any fun and interesting facts about St. Louis Style Pizza?

St. Louis Style Pizza has a loyal following in its hometown, and it is often enjoyed with a cold local beer. The use of Provel cheese in this style of pizza is so iconic that it has become a cultural symbol of St. Louis.