Chicago-style pizza often brings to mind the deep-dish variety, with its thick crust and hearty layers. However, there’s another Chicago classic that’s equally beloved and deserves its time in the spotlight: the Chicago Tavern-style pizza. Known for its thin, crispy crust and generous toppings, this pizza is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this iconic pizza, from its history to practical tips for achieving the perfect pie.
Understanding Chicago Tavern Style Pizza
What is Chicago Tavern-style pizza?
Chicago Tavern Style Pizza, sometimes referred to as “Chicago Thin Crust,” is a distinct variation of pizza that contrasts sharply with the city’s more famous deep-dish style. It features a thin, crispy crust that’s typically cut into squares, or “party cut,” rather than traditional wedges. This style of pizza is known for its robust, flavorful toppings and balanced ratio of sauce to cheese.
History and Origins
The origins of Chicago Tavern-style pizza trace back to the 1940s, a period when pizza became a staple in Chicago’s taverns and bars. Unlike the hearty deep-dish pizzas, this thinner style was easier to handle and suited the casual, communal dining atmosphere of these establishments. Over time, it gained popularity and has become a staple in many pizzerias across the city.
Key Components of Chicago Tavern-Style Pizza
The Crust
One of the defining features of Chicago Tavern-style pizza is its crust. Unlike deep-dish pizza, the crust here is thin and crispy. It’s often rolled out to a precise thickness to ensure an even bake. The key to achieving the perfect crust lies in the dough preparation and baking technique.
Sauce
The sauce for Chicago Tavern Style Pizza is usually a simple tomato-based sauce, seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil. The sauce is spread thinly over the cheese, rather than the other way around, which helps to keep the crust crispy and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Cheese
A generous layer of cheese is a hallmark of this pizza. Mozzarella is the most common cheese used, but it’s not uncommon to find a blend of cheeses, including Parmesan or Provolone, to add depth of flavor.
Toppings
Toppings vary widely and can include everything from classic pepperoni and sausage to vegetables like bell peppers and onions. The key is to not overload the pizza, as the thin crust can only support a moderate number of toppings without becoming soggy.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicago Tavern-Style Pizza
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and garlic. Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cool before using.
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a thin rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Transfer and Top: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with flour. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the dough. Add your desired toppings, and then spread a thin layer of sauce over the top.
- Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Cool and Slice: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
Tips for Perfect Chicago Tavern-Style Pizza
Dough Consistency
The dough should be pliable but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more water. Proper kneading is essential to develop the gluten and achieve the desired texture.
Baking Tips
- Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. A hot oven helps achieve a crispy crust.
- Use a Pizza Stone: A pizza stone helps to evenly distribute heat and absorb moisture, which contributes to a crispier crust.
- Avoid Overloading: Be careful not to overload your pizza with toppings. Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy and affect the crispiness of the crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Under-kneading the Dough: Ensure you knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten. The under-kneaded dough can result in a tough or uneven crust.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ingredients should be at room temperature, especially when making the dough. Cold ingredients can inhibit yeast activity and affect the dough’s rise.
- Not Letting the Dough Rise: Don’t skip the rising time. Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures a light and airy crust.
Real-Life Examples
Hosting a Game Night
Chicago Tavern Style Pizza is perfect for casual gatherings like game nights or sports parties. Its easy-to-eat square slices make it ideal for sharing. Prepare a few different varieties, such as classic cheese, pepperoni, and veggie, to cater to different tastes.
Family Dinner
For a family dinner, Chicago Tavern Style Pizza offers a balance between a hearty meal and a light, crispy crust. It pairs well with a simple side salad and can be customized with favorite toppings to please everyone at the table.
Party Planning
If you’re planning a larger party, consider making multiple pizzas with different toppings. You can even create a DIY pizza bar where guests can add their toppings before baking. This interactive element adds a fun and personalized touch to the event.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Pizza Game
Chicago Tavern Style Pizza offers a delightful alternative to the more famous deep-dish variety, with its crispy crust and generous toppings. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a pizza that not only tastes amazing but also impresses your friends and family.
Take Action!
Ready to make your own Chicago Tavern-style pizza? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start rolling out that dough. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to find your perfect combination. Share your creations and experiences with friends and family, and don’t forget to enjoy the process of making and eating your delicious homemade pizza.
By mastering this classic Chicago style, you’ll not only add a new favorite recipe to your repertoire but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary traditions of the Windy City. Happy baking!