American, but Non-American Cuisine: Pizza in the U.S.

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American, but Non-American Cuisine: Pizza in the U.S.

Sunju Lee

Dpt. of Political Science and Diplomacy

Kyung-pook National University

             When I first tried a slice of pizza, I knew that it is originated from Italy. Few years later, I found myself betrayed by that pizza. By mid of 2000s, when thin crusted pizza baked in Italian style brick oven was introduced, it was revealed that the pizza which I had eaten was American style pizza. Thick dough, rolled edge and greasy toppings are typical characteristic for so-called the U.S. style. In fact, most of American pizza chains such as Pizza Hut, Dominos and Papa John’s have kept this culinary tradition. However, this is not the very first model or typical style of pizza in the U.S., but just one of a variation of American style.

             Introduced by an Italian-American neighborhood, “pizza” had gradually earned its fame from the late 19^th century. Gennaro Lombardi opened the first American pizzeria in New York in 1905. At that moment, Margarita Pizza named after Queen Margarita had been popular in Italy. So, Lombardi employed this famous recipe to his pizza place. Furthermore, the World War II and after-war situation boosted pizza to attract more people. This is because American survivors who had served in Italy during the war wanted that flavor. In addition, because of the feature that pizza can be shared by pieces, it was welcomed by many workers who wanted to enjoy their evening with their companions.

<Lombardi’s Pizza, flickr.com>

 

             Naturally, pizza has begun to change its shape and flavor depending on where it arrived from. For instance, Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven is famous for Clam pie. Different from Lombardi’s pizza, New Haven style uses white sauce and features oblong shape and thinner crust. On the other hand, Pizzeria Uno in Chicago invented ‘Deep-dish’ or Chicago style pizza. According to the recipe from Chicago, dough should be placed in a pie pan and the toppings and cheese should be filled in layers.



< Clam Pie, New Haven, flickr.com>

 <Deep Dish, Chicago, en.wikipedia.com>

 

The Italian-oriented cuisine has developed in such various ways for a dozen decades. According to its shape, volume, toppings and even place where it is baked and served, pizza is called by tens of different ways. However, regardless of its style and recipe, this flat and round bread cannot dissatisfy our hunger and palate. Obviously, pizza is a good plate to share with our family and friends.