What Is Detroit Style Pizza?

Detroit is known for many things – automobiles, Motown music, and its resilient spirit. But in recent years, another Motor City creation has been capturing hearts and taste buds across the nation: Detroit style pizza. This unique take on the classic Italian dish has become a culinary sensation, loved for its thick, crispy crust and generous toppings. But what exactly is Detroit style pizza, and what makes it so special? Let’s explore this delectable dish and learn how to bring a taste of Detroit to your own kitchen.

Key Features of Detroit Style Pizza

Detroit style pizza is a rectangular pizza characterized by its thick, airy crust, crispy cheese-covered edges, and reverse layering of toppings. Unlike traditional round pizzas, Detroit style pizza is baked in a square or rectangular pan, giving it its distinctive shape and texture.

1. Thick, chewy, and light crust: The crust is the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness.
2. Rectangular or square shape: This unique shape is a hallmark of Detroit style pizza.
3. Baked in a thin, dark square pan: The pan plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect crust texture.
4. Inspired by Sicilian and Chicago-style pizzas: It combines elements from both to create its own identity.
5. Unique cheese and sauce application: Cheese often goes right to the edge of the pan, creating irresistible crispy edges.
6. Reverse layering: Toppings are typically placed under the sauce, which is drizzled on top in thick lines.

Detroit style pizza stands out from other pizza styles due to its focus on the crust. The dough is allowed to rise twice, resulting in a light, airy texture that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The cheese, usually a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese, is spread to the very edges of the pan, creating a caramelized cheese crust that’s simply irresistible.

The Perfect Pan for Detroit Style Pizza

While the ingredients are crucial, the pan used to bake Detroit style pizza plays an equally important role in achieving its signature texture and flavor.

1. Custom Detroit Style Pizza Pan: These are specially designed for optimal results.
2. 9×13-inch baking pan: A great alternative that’s likely already in your kitchen.
3. Darker pans preferred: They conduct heat better, leading to a crispier crust.
4. Versatility: The same pan can be used for other baking purposes.
5. Thin pans: They contribute to the crispy crust texture.
6. Heat conductivity: Look for pans that heat up quickly and evenly.

While specialized Detroit style pizza pans are available, don’t feel like you need to invest in new equipment to try this style at home. A standard 9×13-inch baking pan, especially a darker one, can work wonderfully. The key is to use a pan that conducts heat quickly and efficiently to achieve that perfectly crispy crust.

Get Creative with Toppings

One of the joys of making Detroit style pizza at home is the ability to customize your toppings. While traditional toppings like pepperoni are always a hit, don’t be afraid to get creative!

1. Classic pepperoni cups: These curl up during baking, creating little cups of flavor.
2. Cheese blend: A mix of mozzarella and brick cheese is traditional, but feel free to experiment.
3. Banana peppers: Add a tangy kick to your pizza.
4. Pepperoncini and pepperoni: A spicy-savory combination.
5. Veggie medley: Try mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and kale for a colorful, nutritious option.
6. Meat lovers’ delight: Combine sausage, pepperoni, and bacon for a protein-packed pizza.

Remember, with Detroit style pizza, less is often more when it comes to toppings. The focus should be on the crust and cheese, with toppings playing a supporting role. Don’t overload your pizza, or you risk losing the essence of what makes Detroit style so special.

How to Make Detroit Style Pizza at Home

Creating your own Detroit style pizza at home might seem daunting, but with a little patience and the right technique, you can achieve pizzeria-quality results. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Mix the dough ingredients: Combine flour, yeast, salt, warm water, and olive oil in a large bowl.
2. Allow dough to rest and rise in stages: This is crucial for developing the right texture.
3. Gradually press dough into pan corners: Use your fingers to dimple and stretch the dough, allowing it to rest between stretches.
4. Apply sauce in a thin, even layer: Unlike other pizzas, the sauce often goes on top of the cheese in Detroit style.
5. Add cheese and toppings: Spread cheese all the way to the edges and add your chosen toppings.
6. Bake with rotation for even cooking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Pro tip: Don’t rush the dough-rising process. The key to that light, airy crust is giving the dough time to develop its structure and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Detroit Style Pizza

Even with the best recipe, making Detroit style pizza can take some practice. Here are some tips to help you achieve pizza perfection:

1. Use olive oil liberally: This prevents the dough from sticking to your hands and the pan.
2. Opt for dark-colored pans: They work better than light-colored ones for achieving a crispy crust.
3. Find a warm, draft-free spot for rising: Proper rising conditions are crucial for the dough’s texture.
4. Extend cheese and sauce to the pan edges: This creates the signature crispy cheese crust.
5. Be flexible with cheese choices: Can’t find brick cheese? Mozzarella works great too.
6. Don’t skimp on the pepperoni: It shrinks during baking, so use more than you think you need.

Remember: The key to great Detroit style pizza is patience. Give your dough time to rise properly, and don’t rush the baking process. The result will be worth the wait!

The History Behind Detroit Style Pizza

While we’ve focused on what Detroit style pizza is, it’s also interesting to know where it came from. This unique pizza style was born in the 1940s at Buddy’s Rendezvous, a Detroit bar-turned-pizzeria. The story goes that the original pans used were automotive drip pans from local car factories – a true Motor City origin!

Detroit style pizza gained popularity locally throughout the mid-20th century but remained relatively unknown outside of Michigan for decades. It wasn’t until the 2010s that it began to gain national attention, with pizzerias across the country adding their own take on the Detroit style to their menus.

Why Detroit Style Pizza Stands Out

In a world full of pizza options, what makes Detroit style pizza so special? It’s all about texture and flavor balance. The thick yet light crust provides a satisfying chew, while the crispy, cheese-covered edges offer a delightful crunch. The reverse layering of toppings ensures that the crust doesn’t get soggy, and the sauce on top provides a fresh, bright contrast to the rich cheese and toppings.

Detroit style pizza is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a truly unforgettable pizza experience.

Conclusion

Now that you know what Detroit style pizza is and how to make it, it’s time to bring a taste of the Motor City to your own kitchen. Whether you stick with classic toppings or get creative with your own combinations, the key is to focus on that perfect crust and generous cheese.

Remember, making great Detroit style pizza takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep experimenting with different pans, cheese blends, and toppings until you find your ideal combination.

So, fire up your oven, grab your favorite pan, and get ready to enjoy the unique, delicious experience that is Detroit style pizza. Your taste buds will thank you!