New York Style Pizza Vs Chicago: Who Will Win?

The world of pizza is a vast and diverse one, with countless regional variations and styles that have captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza lovers everywhere. Among the most iconic and beloved of these styles are New York style pizza and Chicago style pizza. These two titans of the pizza world have been the subject of countless debates and comparisons, with each side claiming superiority over the other. In this blog post, we will delve into the key differences between New York style pizza and Chicago style pizza, examining their crusts, toppings, and overall flavor profiles. We will also provide our own verdict on which style reigns supreme.

Crust: Thin and Crispy vs. Thick and Fluffy

One of the most striking differences between New York style pizza and Chicago style pizza is their crusts. New York style pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust that is often charred around the edges. This crust is made with a high-gluten flour that gives it a chewy texture. Chicago style pizza, on the other hand, has a thick, fluffy crust that is often more like a bread loaf than a traditional pizza crust. This crust is made with a low-gluten flour that gives it a soft and airy texture.

Toppings: Classic vs. Over-the-Top

The toppings on New York style pizza are typically more restrained than those on Chicago style pizza. New York style pizza is often topped with a simple combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a few basic toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or onions. Chicago style pizza, on the other hand, is known for its over-the-top toppings that can include everything from sausage to peppers to onions to olives. The cheese on Chicago style pizza is also typically more generous than on New York style pizza, and it is often a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

Flavor Profile: Savory vs. Rich

The flavor profiles of New York style pizza and Chicago style pizza are also quite different. New York style pizza is known for its savory flavor that comes from the combination of the crispy crust, the tangy tomato sauce, and the salty cheese. Chicago style pizza, on the other hand, has a richer flavor that comes from the combination of the thick, fluffy crust, the generous toppings, and the blend of cheeses.

Which Style Reigns Supreme?

The question of which style of pizza is better is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, there are some objective factors that can be used to compare the two styles. For example, New York style pizza is generally considered to be more portable than Chicago style pizza, as it can be folded and eaten on the go. Chicago style pizza, on the other hand, is better suited for dining in, as it is often too heavy and messy to eat on the go.

Summary: A Matter of Taste

In the end, the best way to decide which style of pizza you prefer is to try both of them and see which one you like better. However, if you are looking for a light and portable pizza that is perfect for a quick meal, then New York style pizza is a good choice. If you are looking for a heartier and more filling pizza that is perfect for a special occasion, then Chicago style pizza is a good choice.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which style of pizza is more popular?

A: New York style pizza is more popular in the United States, while Chicago style pizza is more popular in the Midwest.

Q: Which style of pizza is more expensive?

A: Chicago style pizza is typically more expensive than New York style pizza, as it requires more ingredients and is more labor-intensive to make.

Q: Which style of pizza is healthier?

A: New York style pizza is typically healthier than Chicago style pizza, as it has a thinner crust and fewer toppings.