CHICAGO DEEP-DISH PIZZA.

  CHICAGO DEEP-DISH PIZZA.

The Rich Legacy of Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago deep-dish pizza is a gastronomic marvel that stands out for its thick, buttery crust and lavish layers of cheese and toppings. This iconic dish was first created in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno, captivating locals and visitors with its unique style. Unlike traditional flat pizzas, the deep-dish pizza is baked in a tall, round pan, giving it a pie-like structure with high edges that contain a deliciously dense filling.

The construction of a Chicago deep-dish pizza is an art form. The crust is made from a rich dough, pressed into a deep pan to form a firm, crispy base. This is followed by a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, then various toppings such as Italian sausage, pepperoni, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Finally, a robust, tangy tomato sauce is spread on top, with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese sprinkled over it for extra flavor.

What makes Chicago deep-dish pizza exceptional is the perfect balance of textures and flavors in each bite. The crunchy crust contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese and the hearty toppings, making every slice a filling and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed in a classic Chicago pizzeria or homemade, this pizza is a testament to the city's rich culinary tradition and innovation.

Full Recipe: Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F)
• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until the dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • While the dough rises, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
   • Sauté the bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms (if using) until softened.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll out the dough to fit a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan, ensuring the dough comes up the sides of the pan.
   • Layer the bottom of the dough with shredded mozzarella cheese.
   • Evenly distribute the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and any other desired toppings over the cheese.
   • In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes with oregano, basil, garlic powder, and sugar. Spread the tomato mixture over the toppings.
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

4. Bake the Pizza:

   • Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chicago deep-dish pizza with family and friends, savoring every rich and delicious bite