Greek Pizza: The History and Evolution

Worldwide, pizza is a favorite dish, and there are numerous varieties and styles to choose from.

Greek pizza is a lesser-known pizza variety that should get more attention. Greek pizza offers a delectable variation on the classic pizza experience with its crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and distinctive mix of toppings.

Greek pizza has its origins in Greece and is frequently made there using local, fresh ingredients, despite the fact that pizza began in Italy. Greek pizza has become more common in the US recently and is now offered on the plates of numerous pizzerias and eateries.

In this piece, we’ll look at what makes Greek pizza special, its background, and how it differs from other well-known pizza varieties. Additionally, we’ll offer advice on how to make Greek pizza at home and suggest the top restaurants serving it in both Greece and the United States. Greek pizza is a must-try for any pizza lover, regardless of whether you’re an expert pizza eater or just seeking to try something new.

What is Greek Pizza?

Greek pizza is a well-liked pizza variety distinguished by its thick, fluffy dough, tart tomato sauce, and distinctive combination of toppings.

Greek pizza has a unique taste and texture in comparison to other well-known pizza varieties like Neapolitan or New York-style pizza.

Greek pizza’s dough is one of its most recognizable qualities. Greek pizza has a thick and fluffy crust that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, in contrast to other types that are thin and crispy. In order to give the dough its distinctive texture and taste, it is typically made with flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and olive oil.

Greek pizza’s sauce is another distinguishing feature. Typically, tomato puree, thyme, salt, and olive oil are used to make Greek pizza sauce. The tangy, flavorful sauce complements the garnishes well.

Feta cheese, kalamata olives, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes are typical Greek pizza garnishes. Greek pizza is distinguished from other pizza varieties by these toppings, which give it a unique Mediterranean flavor.

The History of Greek Pizza

Greek flatbreads were frequently consumed in ancient Greece, where flatbreads topped with cheese, herbs, and vegetables were popular.

But in the 1950s, when Greek immigrants began establishing pizzerias in the US, modern Greek pizza as we know it today was created in Greece.

Greek pizza started to become more and more well-liked in the United States in the 1960s, especially in the Northeast. The owners of these early pizzerias were frequently Greek immigrants who modified the original pizza recipes to fit their own tastes. Greek pizza has a distinctive blend of toppings, a thick crust, and tangy tomato sauce that have all evolved into its own distinct flavor over time.

Greek pizza is still widely available and enjoyed in pizzerias all over the United States today. Many Greek pizzerias are still run and controlled by families, with recipes and methods being passed down through the generations. Greek pizza, despite having its roots in Greece, has integrated itself into the American pizza landscape and continues to develop and adjust to shifting tastes and preferences.

What Makes Greek Pizza Unique?

In contrast to other well-known pizza varieties, Greek pizza is a distinctive pizza flavor. It distinguishes itself from other varieties of pizza thanks to its distinctive garnishes, sauce, and crust.

The crust is one of the essential components that distinguish Greek pizza. Greek pizza dough has a chewier crust and a greater water content than other types of pizza dough. Additionally, olive oil is used to season the dough, giving it a distinctly Mediterranean taste.

The condiment is an additional important component of Greek pizza. Typically, tomato puree, olive oil, salt, and thyme are used to make Greek pizza sauce. It has a taste that goes well with the toppings and is tangy with a touch of sweetness.

Greek pizza uses unusual ingredients as well. Greek pizza, in contrast to other pizza varieties, is frequently covered with feta cheese, kalamata olives, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. Greek pizza has an unique Mediterranean flavor that is savory and tangy thanks to these toppings.

And lastly, Greek pizza is prepared differently from other types of pizza. It usually has a crispy bottom and a soft, fluffy center because it is baked in a pan with high edges. This technique of cooking also enables the pizza to maintain its moisture and flavors, creating a distinct and mouthwatering pizza experience.

How to Make Greek Pizza

Making Greek pizza at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy this delicious pizza style.

With a few key ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious Greek pizza that rivals the best pizzerias.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup sliced green peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced onions
• 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a 12-inch pizza pan.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place it in the prepared pan. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the tomato puree, oregano, salt, and olive oil. Spread the sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
4. Add the feta cheese, kalamata olives, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes on top of the sauce.
5. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips:

• To achieve the perfect crust, use a high-quality pizza dough and let it rest before adding the sauce and toppings.
• Be careful not to overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can make the crust soggy.
• For a crispier crust, preheat the pizza pan before adding the dough.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Where to Find the Best Greek Pizza

If you’re looking for the best Greek pizza, you’re in luck!

Greek pizza can be found in many pizza restaurants and pizzerias around the United States and in Greece. Here are some recommendations for the top Greek pizza spots:

United States

1. Santarpio’s Pizza – Boston, Massachusetts
2. Nick’s Pizza – Chicago, Illinois
3. Omega Pizza and Pasta – Milford, Massachusetts
4. Angelo’s Pizza – Lakewood, Ohio
5. Pizza Palace – Knoxville, Tennessee

Greece

1. Peperoncino – Athens
2. La Pasteria – Athens
3. To Kanoni – Corfu
4. Skoniathos – Skopelos
5. Avli – Rethymno, Crete

These are just a few of the many great Greek pizza spots around the United States and Greece. Be sure to check out your local pizzerias and explore new places to find your favorite Greek pizza.

Conclusion

Greek pizza is a distinctive and delectable pizza variety with a long past and a devoted following. Pizza fans must try it because of its flavorful toppings, tangy tomato sauce, and thick, chewy crust.

The characteristics and background of Greek pizza have been examined in this piece, from its Greek roots to its development in America. We’ve also looked at what makes Greek pizza special, including its essential components and distinctive cooking methods from other well-known pizza varieties.

Additionally, we’ve included step-by-step directions for making Greek pizza at home as well as suggestions for the best places to eat Greek pizza in both Greece and the United States.

Overall, Greek pizza is a delectable and satisfying pizza variety that everyone who loves pizza should experience. It is the ideal option for those seeking a different kind of pizza encounter due to its distinctive flavor and texture. So the next time you’re craving pizza, try some Greek pizza and learn why it’s so popular among pizza lovers all over the globe.

FAQ: Greek Pizza

What is Greek pizza?
Greek pizza is a variety of pizza that was first made in Greece. It is distinguished by its chewy, thick dough, tart tomato sauce, and flavorful toppings.

What makes Greek pizza different from other pizza styles?
The distinctive dough of Greek pizza is thicker and chewier than that of other pizza varieties. Additionally, it has savory additions like feta cheese, olives, and onions, as well as tangy tomato sauce.

What are the key ingredients in Greek pizza?
A thick, chewy crust, tart tomato sauce, and savory toppings like feta cheese, olives, and onions are essential components of Greek pizza.

How is Greek pizza cooked?
Greek pizza is usually prepared in a pan, giving it its distinctively thick and chewy dough. After placing the toppings on top of the sauce, the pizza is baked in the oven until the cheese has melted and the dough is golden brown.

Can I make Greek pizza at home?
It is possible to prepare Greek pizza at home. Use a chewy, thick crust, tart tomato sauce, and savory garnishes like feta cheese, onions, and olives. You can make real Greek pizza at home with the assistance of a variety of online recipes.

Where can I find Greek pizza?
Greek pizza is served in many pizzerias and eateries both in Greece and the United States. Boston, Chicago, and Greece all have some of the best places to eat Greek pizza.

What are some popular toppings for Greek pizza?
Feta cheese, olives, onions, tomatoes, spinach, and gyro meat are a few common garnishes for Greek pizza.

Is Greek pizza healthy?
Greek pizza can be a filling and delectable dinner, but due to its high calorie and fat content, it is typically not regarded as a healthy choice. However, you can choose healthier toppings and reduce your serving size to make better decisions.