Italian cuisine is known for its diversity and deliciousness, and two popular items that often cause confusion are stromboli and calzone. While they might seem similar at first glance, there are key differences that set them apart. Understanding these differences can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of these tasty treats. We will explore the difference between a stromboli and a calzone so you can finally know.
Key Takeaways
- Stromboli: Rolled and baked, often filled with a variety of cheeses and meats, with the sauce sometimes included inside.
- Calzone: A folded, baked turnover traditionally filled with cheeses, meats, and vegetables, with the sauce typically served on the side.
- Origins and Uses: Both are Italian-American creations but have distinct regional and culinary uses.
What Is a Stromboli?
Definition and Composition
Stromboli is a type of turnover filled with Italian cheeses (typically mozzarella) and often includes cured meats such as salami, capicola, and bresaola. Unlike calzones, strombolis are rolled into a log shape before being baked, resulting in a pinwheel-like appearance when sliced.
Preparation and Ingredients
The preparation of stromboli involves rolling out pizza dough, layering it with various ingredients, and then rolling it up tightly. The dough is then brushed with egg wash to create a golden, crispy exterior. Common fillings include a combination of meats, cheeses, and sometimes vegetables, with the option to include marinara sauce inside or serve it on the side.
Recent Developments
In recent years, there has been a surge in creative stromboli recipes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Chefs and home cooks are experimenting with diverse fillings and dipping sauces, broadening the appeal of this versatile dish. Additionally, the rise of gourmet pizza places has brought stromboli into the spotlight, showcasing its adaptability and flavor potential.
What Is a Calzone?
Definition and Composition
A calzone is essentially a folded pizza, forming a half-moon shape. It is filled with typical pizza ingredients such as ricotta, mozzarella, and various meats and vegetables. Traditionally, calzones are baked until golden brown and served with marinara or tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
Preparation and Ingredients
The preparation of a calzone starts with rolling out pizza dough into a circle, then placing the fillings on one half of the dough. The other half is folded over, and the edges are crimped to seal the ingredients inside. The dough is then brushed with olive oil or egg wash to enhance browning. Fillings vary widely but often include a combination of cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
Recent Developments
Calzones have also seen a culinary evolution, with many pizzerias offering a wide range of innovative fillings and flavor combinations. From classic Italian ingredients to more unconventional choices like buffalo chicken or barbecue pork, the calzone has become a canvas for culinary creativity.
Comparing Stromboli and Calzone
Shape and Presentation
The most obvious difference between stromboli and calzone is their shape. Strombolis are rolled into a cylindrical shape and sliced into individual servings, while calzones are folded into a semi-circle and served whole. This difference in presentation also affects the texture, with strombolis having a more uniform, pinwheel-like structure and calzones offering a distinct pocket of fillings.
Sauce Inclusion
Another key difference is how the sauce is used. Strombolis can have the sauce baked inside or served on the side, whereas calzones traditionally have the sauce served separately. This difference can influence the overall moisture and flavor profile of the dish.
Culinary Uses
Both stromboli and calzone are popular in Italian-American cuisine and are often found on pizzeria menus. Stromboli is often served as an appetizer or party food, thanks to its easy-to-slice shape, while calzone is typically enjoyed as a main course.
Top Experts and Entities in the Field
Experts
- Lidia Bastianich: A renowned Italian-American chef known for her expertise in Italian cuisine and her numerous cookbooks and TV shows.
- Marc Vetri: A celebrated chef specializing in Italian cooking, Vetri has several restaurants and has authored cookbooks that delve into traditional and modern Italian dishes.
Entities
- Eataly: A marketplace that combines restaurants, cafes, and retail, offering a wide range of Italian foods and cooking classes.
- Bon Appétit Magazine: Known for its comprehensive recipes and cooking tips, often featuring articles on Italian cuisine, including stromboli and calzone.
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Authorship
This article was written by HowDiff, an expert in the field of comparison articles, providing in-depth insights and detailed analyses for many years.
FAQs – Difference Between a Stromboli and a Calzone
What are the main ingredients in a stromboli?
Stromboli typically contains pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, various cured meats, and sometimes marinara sauce.
How is a calzone different from a pizza?
A calzone is a folded pizza that forms a turnover, filled with typical pizza ingredients but baked and served with the sauce on the side.
Can stromboli be made vegetarian?
Yes, stromboli can be made with a variety of vegetarian fillings, such as cheese, vegetables, and plant-based meats.
Is a calzone healthier than a stromboli?
The healthiness of a calzone versus a stromboli depends on the ingredients used; both can be made with healthy or indulgent fillings.
How do you seal a calzone properly?
To seal a calzone, fold the dough over the fillings and crimp the edges firmly, often using a fork or by pinching and folding the dough.
Can stromboli be served cold?
Stromboli can be served cold or reheated; it is often enjoyed at room temperature, especially as a party appetizer.
What sauces are typically served with calzones?
Calzones are traditionally served with marinara or tomato sauce on the side for dipping.
Can you freeze stromboli and calzone?
Yes, both stromboli and calzone can be frozen either before or after baking, then reheated as needed.
Are there any dessert versions of stromboli or calzone?
Yes, sweet versions can be made using sweet dough and fillings such as chocolate, fruit, and sweet cheese.
What’s the origin of stromboli?
Stromboli is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, influenced by Italian-American cuisine.