Calzone Recipe: Deliciously Simple and Authentic Italian Pizza Pocket

There's something universally comforting about pizza, but if you want to elevate your pizza night, give the calzone a try. A calzone, often referred to as a folded pizza or Italian pizza pocket, is not just a twist on the classic pizza but a culinary delight in its own right. Here, we delve into crafting a simple yet authentic calzone at home, exploring its roots, ingredients, preparation, and the joy of sharing this delicious meal.

History and Tradition of Calzone

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a moment to understand the history of calzone. Originating from Italy, particularly Naples, the calzone isn’t just a food but a piece of culinary heritage. Traditionally, it was a solution for those wanting pizza on the go, as its folded nature made it easier to eat while standing or walking. It represents the ingenuity of Italian street food, combining portability with the rich flavors of pizza.

Essential Ingredients

Creating an authentic calzone begins with selecting quality ingredients:

• Dough: Similar to pizza dough, but slightly different in texture. Typically, you’ll need:
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 packet of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 cup of warm water
• Filling: Here’s where you can get creative, but traditional fillings often include:
• Mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• Prosciutto or other cured meats
• Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms
• Marinara sauce for dipping

👨‍🍳 Note: Remember, while the ingredients list can be vast, for an authentic touch, keep the fillings simple to let the flavors of each component shine.

The Calzone Preparation

Making the Dough

Start with your dough:

1. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Make a well in the center, add yeast, olive oil, and warm water.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface until smooth.
4. Let the dough rise in an oiled, covered bowl for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Calzones

Once your dough has risen, here’s how to assemble:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside if possible.
2. Divide your dough into 4 pieces for smaller calzones or keep it whole for a large one.
3. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about ¹⁄₄ inch thick.
4. On one half of the dough, place your fillings leaving a border for sealing.
5. Fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal well.
6. Brush the top with olive oil and make a few slits to allow steam to escape.

Cooking the Calzone

To cook your calzone:

1. Place the calzone on your preheated baking stone or sheet.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
3. Let it cool slightly before cutting to allow the cheese to set.

🍅 Note: For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone or bake directly on a cast iron skillet. If you prefer a softer crust, use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• A fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the calzone.
• For an authentic touch, a glass of red wine, like Chianti, would be the perfect companion.

Why Make Calzones at Home?

There’s something uniquely rewarding about homemade calzones:

• Customization: You can tailor the fillings to suit personal tastes or dietary restrictions.
• Connection: Sharing homemade food fosters connections and conversations.
• Quality Control: Ensuring quality ingredients for healthier eating and richer flavors.

To wrap up our exploration of calzone making, remember that while the process might seem intricate, each step carries the joy of creation. From mixing the dough to folding your carefully chosen ingredients into that perfect pocket, every calzone tells a story of flavor, tradition, and the love of food. Whether you're making it for yourself or to share with friends and family, each bite is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage.

What is the difference between a calzone and a pizza?

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A calzone is essentially a folded pizza. The main differences are: calzones have the filling enclosed within the dough, making it a sealed pocket; they are often baked longer to get a golden, crispy exterior; and traditionally, they might not have sauce inside but rather served alongside for dipping.

Can I freeze calzones for later?

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Yes, you can freeze calzones. After assembling but before baking, place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, wrap them well and store in the freezer. Bake them from frozen at the same temperature, adding extra time as needed.

What other fillings can I use in a calzone?

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Calzones are incredibly versatile. You can try:

• Spicy Italian sausage with cheese and peppers
• Spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella
• Pesto, feta, and sundried tomatoes
• Chicken, Alfredo sauce, and broccoli
• Eggplant parmesan filling