Calzone, a classic Italian dish, has been a staple in many cuisines around the world. This folded pizza-like treat has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts, but have you ever wondered if it has another name? In this article, we will delve into the world of calzone, exploring its origins, variations, and other names that it is known by.
A Brief History of Calzone
To understand the different names for calzone, it’s essential to know its origins. Calzone is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Naples, Italy. The word “calzone” is derived from the Italian word “calza,” which means “stocking.” This refers to the shape of the dish, which resembles a stocking or a folded pocket.
Calzone has been a staple in Neapolitan cuisine since the 18th century. It was initially a street food, sold by vendors in Naples. The dish was made with simple ingredients, including dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various meats or vegetables. Over time, calzone gained popularity, and its variations spread throughout Italy and the world.
Variations of Calzone
Calzone has many variations, each with its unique twist. Some of the most popular variations include:
Neapolitan Calzone
The original Neapolitan calzone is made with a thin crust, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. This classic version is still popular in Naples and is often served as a snack or appetizer.
Sicilian Calzone
Sicilian calzone is a thicker, more filling-heavy version of the dish. It’s made with a thick crust, rich tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various meats or vegetables. This version is often served as a main course.
Calzone Fritto
Calzone fritto is a fried version of the dish. The dough is deep-fried, giving it a crispy exterior and a soft interior. This version is often served as a snack or appetizer.
Other Names for Calzone
While calzone is the most widely recognized name for this dish, it’s known by other names in different regions. Some of the other names for calzone include:
Panzerotti
Panzerotti is a name used in southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Apulia and Campania. This name refers to a smaller, more delicate version of calzone.
Calzoncini
Calzoncini is a name used in northern Italy, particularly in the region of Lombardy. This name refers to a smaller, more bite-sized version of calzone.
Turnovers
In some parts of the world, calzone is referred to as a turnover. This name refers to the folded shape of the dish, which resembles a turnover pastry.
Regional Variations of Calzone
Calzone has many regional variations, each with its unique twist. Some of the most popular regional variations include:
Italian Regional Variations
Italy has many regional variations of calzone, each with its unique ingredients and cooking methods. Some of the most popular regional variations include:
- Tuscan Calzone: Made with a thick crust, rich tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Venetian Calzone: Made with a thin crust, seafood, and mozzarella cheese.
- Sicilian Calzone: Made with a thick crust, rich tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
International Variations
Calzone has many international variations, each with its unique twist. Some of the most popular international variations include:
- Argentine Calzone: Made with a thick crust, beef, and mozzarella cheese.
- Brazilian Calzone: Made with a thin crust, chicken, and mozzarella cheese.
- Chinese Calzone: Made with a thick crust, pork, and mozzarella cheese.
Conclusion
In conclusion, calzone is a versatile dish with many variations and names. While it’s widely recognized as calzone, it’s also known as panzerotti, calzoncini, and turnovers in different regions. Its regional variations offer a unique twist on the classic dish, making it a staple in many cuisines around the world.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just a lover of Italian cuisine, calzone is a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re in the mood for something delicious, try making a calzone or trying one of its many variations. You won’t be disappointed!
Calzone Recipe
If you’re interested in making your own calzone, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 packet of active dry yeast
- 1 cup of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese
- Various meats or vegetables
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 4-6 equal pieces.
- Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
- Place a tablespoon of tomato sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and your desired meats or vegetables in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape.
- Brush the edges with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious homemade calzone!
Calzone Nutrition Facts
Calzone can be a nutritious meal option, depending on the ingredients used. Here are some approximate nutrition facts for a classic calzone:
- Calories: 250-350 per serving
- Fat: 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: 3-5g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg
- Sodium: 400-600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Protein: 15-20g
Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on the ingredients and portion size.
In conclusion, calzone is a delicious and versatile dish with many variations and names. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just a lover of Italian cuisine, calzone is a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re in the mood for something delicious, try making a calzone or trying one of its many variations. You won’t be disappointed!
What is another name for calzone?
A calzone is also known as a panzerotti. This name is commonly used in certain regions of Italy, particularly in the southern part of the country. The term ‘panzerotti’ is often used interchangeably with ‘calzone,’ although some people make a distinction between the two based on the filling and the cooking method.
While both calzones and panzerottis are essentially folded pizzas, the difference lies in their size and the type of filling used. Panzerottis are typically smaller and more crescent-shaped, with a filling that is often simpler and less abundant than that of a calzone. However, this distinction is not universally observed, and the terms are often used to refer to the same dish.
What is the origin of the calzone?
The calzone is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Naples, a city in the Campania region of southern Italy. The word ‘calzone’ is derived from the Italian word for ‘stocking,’ which refers to the shape of the folded dough. The dish has a long history, dating back to the 18th century when it was sold by street vendors as a convenient and affordable food for the working class.
Over time, the calzone gained popularity throughout Italy and eventually spread to other parts of the world. Today, it is a beloved dish that can be found in Italian restaurants and pizzerias around the globe. Despite its widespread popularity, the calzone remains a staple of Neapolitan cuisine, and its origins are still celebrated in Naples and other parts of southern Italy.
What is the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?
A calzone and a stromboli are both Italian dishes that consist of folded dough filled with various ingredients. However, there are some key differences between the two. A calzone is typically a half-moon shaped pocket of dough that is filled with ingredients such as cheese, meat, and vegetables. A stromboli, on the other hand, is a long, rolled-up piece of dough that is filled with similar ingredients.
Another difference between the two dishes is the way they are cooked. Calzones are usually baked in an oven, while strombolis are often cooked in a skillet or on a griddle. This gives the stromboli a crispy exterior and a soft interior, whereas calzones are typically soft and fluffy throughout. Overall, while both dishes are delicious and popular, they have distinct differences in terms of shape, filling, and cooking method.
Can I make a calzone at home?
Making a calzone at home is a fun and rewarding experience that can be accomplished with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills. To start, you will need to make or purchase some pizza dough, which can be found in most supermarkets or made from scratch using flour, yeast, and water. You will also need to choose your filling ingredients, such as cheese, meat, and vegetables.
Once you have your dough and filling ingredients, you can begin assembling your calzone. Simply roll out the dough, place your filling in the center, and fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges of the dough and bake the calzone in a preheated oven until it is golden brown and crispy. You can also add some sauce and cheese on top of the calzone before baking for extra flavor and texture.
What are some popular calzone fillings?
Calzones can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients, depending on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Some popular fillings include cheese, such as mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta, as well as meats like pepperoni, sausage, and ham. Vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers are also common fillings, and can add flavor and texture to your calzone.
Other popular fillings include seafood, such as shrimp and anchovies, as well as eggs and olives. You can also get creative with your fillings and use ingredients like pineapple, bacon, and BBQ chicken to make a unique and delicious calzone. The key is to choose ingredients that complement each other and provide a good balance of flavors and textures.
Can I freeze a calzone?
Yes, you can freeze a calzone to enjoy later. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve calzones and keep them fresh for several months. To freeze a calzone, simply assemble the filling and dough as you normally would, but do not bake it. Instead, place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put it in the freezer until it is frozen solid.
Once the calzone is frozen, you can transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook a frozen calzone, simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the calzone for 15-20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy. You can also cook frozen calzones in a skillet or on a griddle, but baking is usually the easiest and most convenient method.
Is a calzone a healthy food option?
A calzone can be a healthy food option, depending on the ingredients and cooking method used. Traditional calzones are made with a thick crust and filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables, which can make them high in calories and fat. However, you can make a healthier calzone by using a whole-wheat crust and filling it with nutritious ingredients like lean meats, vegetables, and low-fat cheese.
Another way to make a healthier calzone is to bake it instead of frying it. Baking uses less oil and can help reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish. You can also add some extra nutrients to your calzone by using ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Overall, a calzone can be a healthy and delicious option if you make a few simple modifications to the ingredients and cooking method.