We Investigated Who Really Invented Pizza
Everyone thinks that pizza came straight from Italy, but the truth may surprise you. Prepare for a total twist as we explore the real story behind this beloved dish. While Italy is renowned for its pizza, its history is far more complex and involves a fascinating mix of cultures and innovations.
The concept of flatbreads topped with various ingredients goes back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Egyptians. The thin bread and the method of cooking closely resemble the pizza crust we are still enjoying centuries later! These early flatbreads served as precursors to modern pizza, showcasing a rich culinary history that influenced the development of the pizza we love today.
Naples, Italy, holds a significant place in pizza history as the birthplace of Pizza Margherita. Legend has it that around 1889, pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created the iconic pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy. This pizza combination was named after the Queen and still holds that same name today. This is one of the oldest documented types of pizza and a classic combination that all pizza lovers still adore.
Italy’s contributions to pizza culture are undeniable, with regions like Naples and Rome each offering unique pizza styles. A pizza in Northern Italy will be very different than a pizza from the South. Italian immigrants brought their pizza-making traditions to the United States and other countries, shaping the global popularity of pizza as a comfort food staple. But pizza in the US has changed greatly from those original Italian pies.
Ancient Greek flatbreads, such as plakous and pita bread, served as early predecessors to pizza. These flatbreads were often topped with herbs, cheese, and olive oil, showcasing the Greek influence on Mediterranean cuisine and early pizza development. These delicious dishes are similar to white pizzas or sauce-less pizzas that we enjoy today. They also tend to have thicker crust like a lot of American pizzas.
When tomatoes were introduced to Europe in the 16th century, the pizza industry and Italian cuisine were totally transformed. Tomatoes became a staple ingredient in pizza toppings, creating iconic pizzas like Marinara and margarita and contributing to pizza’s evolution into a popular dish. Now, it is hard to imagine pizza with out tomato slices or tomato sauce. You almost need some kind of tomato for it to be considered a real pizza!
Italian immigrants in New York City played a pivotal role in shaping American pizza culture. New York-style pizza is known for its thin, foldable crust, generous toppings, and wide slices, reflecting the fusion of Italian traditions with American culinary preferences. New York is now famous for its specific style of pizza. Any New Yorker will tell you that NY pizza is the best in the whole world! We bet the Italians will beg to differ.
Chicago’s deep-dish pizza stands out for its thick, doughy crust, deep layers of cheese and toppings, and hearty tomato sauce. Created in the 1930s-40s, Chicago-style pizza represents a culinary innovation synonymous with the city’s food culture. The pizza is baked in a deep cake pan so that the crust goes up the edges. Then, there is plenty of room in the center for extra sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Pizza’s popularity has led to diverse international variations and interpretations. From Japanese pizza to Indian-inspired Tikka Masala pizza, different cultures have given pizza its own twists, showcasing its versatility and adaptability. There are hundreds of different types of pizzas, and the possibilities are endless. You can put pretty much any topping on a thin dough, cook it at a high temperature, and call it a pizza!
The rise of pizza chains and commercialization in the 20th century contributed to pizza’s accessibility and widespread popularity. Pizza Hut, Domino’s, and Papa John’s are examples of major pizza chains that have shaped modern pizza consumption and delivery services. These chains stretch all the way across the country, enabling people to get pizza no matter where they live. However, lots of pizza aficionados do not consider these chain restaurants to serve “real” pizza. Everyone has their own opinion!
Health-conscious pizza trends have become popular, focusing on alternative crusts such as cauliflower or gluten-free options, plant-based toppings, and lighter, fresher ingredients. These trends cater to wellness lifestyles while maintaining the essence of pizza enjoyment. Everyone deserves the ability to enjoy a pizza, regardless of their dietary needs!
Pizza has become an iconic symbol in pop culture. From pizza-themed parties and events to memes and viral food challenges, pizza’s presence in pop culture reflects its status as a beloved comfort food and social centerpiece. Pizza is now a classic party food, an easy dinner for busy nights, and a quick, tasty lunch. It is a food that is perfect for every occasion and every person regardless of their background or economic standing. Pizza brings us all together!
As culinary creativity evolves, the future of pizza innovation looks promising. From high-tech pizza-making robots to sustainable practices in pizza production, the industry is exploring new horizons while preserving the appeal of a delicious slice of pizza. You can even buy affordable backyard pizza ovens so you can make your own culinary masterpiece! The pizza possibilities are endless.
This article was inspired by the History Cooperative .
