What is the difference between a stromboli and a calzone? These two Italian dishes might look similar at first glance, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Both are stuffed with a variety of ingredients, wrapped in dough, and then cooked, but their preparation methods, flavors, and presentation differ significantly. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two beloved Italian treats and help you determine which one suits your taste preferences.
Stromboli is a street food that originated in the United States, inspired by the Italian pizza. It is a type of pizza that is baked in an oven, but instead of being sliced, it is cut into wedges like a pie. The dough used for stromboli is typically a thick, rectangular sheet, which is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meats, vegetables, and herbs. The dough is then rolled up, pinched shut, and baked until golden brown. The result is a crispy, savory, and gooey treat that can be enjoyed as a meal or a snack.
On the other hand, a calzone is a stuffed Italian pizza, similar to a deep-dish pizza. The dough used for a calzone is thicker and softer than that of a stromboli, and it is usually round or oval in shape. Calzones are typically filled with cheese, meats, vegetables, and sometimes ricotta cheese, and they are baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Unlike stromboli, calzones are not cut into wedges but are usually sliced into wedges after baking, making them more like a pizza pie.
One of the key differences between stromboli and calzone is their texture. Stromboli has a crispy crust and a soft, chewy interior, while calzone has a thicker, chewier crust and a more substantial filling. This difference in texture can be attributed to the type of dough used and the cooking method. Stromboli is baked at a higher temperature, which helps to create its crispy crust, while calzone is cooked at a lower temperature, resulting in a softer crust.
Another difference is the flavor profile. Stromboli often has a more pronounced savory flavor due to the variety of meats and herbs used in the filling. Calzone, on the other hand, tends to have a more mellow flavor, with the cheese being the star ingredient. This is because calzones are often filled with a combination of cheese and ricotta, which gives them a creamy and rich taste.
In conclusion, while stromboli and calzone may share some similarities, they are distinct in their preparation methods, textures, and flavors. Stromboli is a crispy, savory treat that is baked like a pizza but cut into wedges, while calzone is a softer, more substantial pizza pie with a milder flavor. Both dishes are delicious and worth trying, so the next time you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, you can decide which one suits your taste preferences.
