What Pizza Places Have Calzones?

What Pizza Places Have Calzones? A Deep Dive into This Deliciously Folded Treat

Summary: While availability varies, most independent pizza places and many regional chains offer calzones. Major national chains like Domino’s and Pizza Hut typically do not consistently have calzones on their standard menus, but some locations may offer them as limited-time promotions or customizable options.

Understanding the Calzone: A Brief History and Cultural Significance

The calzone, a baked or fried turnover originating in Naples, Italy, is often described as a cousin of the pizza. Unlike its open-faced relative, the calzone is a sealed pocket of dough, typically filled with ingredients similar to those found on pizza: ricotta cheese, mozzarella, salami, ham, vegetables, and of course, tomato sauce. Its portability made it a popular street food in Naples, offering a convenient and satisfying meal on the go.

• Origin: Naples, Italy
• Main Ingredients: Dough, ricotta, mozzarella, various meats and vegetables, tomato sauce
• Popularity: Street food and restaurant staple

The calzone’s popularity spread beyond Italy, and it’s now a common sight in Italian-American restaurants and pizzerias around the world. Its versatility allows for a wide range of fillings, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a classic combination of ricotta and ham or a more adventurous filling with spicy sausage and peppers, the calzone offers something for everyone.

Navigating the Calzone Landscape: Where to Find Them

Finding a calzone might seem straightforward, but the availability varies significantly depending on the type of establishment. Here’s a breakdown:

• Independent Pizzerias: These are your most reliable bet. Most independent pizza places, especially those with a focus on Italian cuisine, will likely have calzones on their menu. They often offer customizable options, allowing you to choose your preferred fillings.
• Regional Chains: Chains that operate within a specific region often cater to local tastes and preferences. Many regional Italian food chains will include calzones on their menus. Researching chains specific to your area is key.
• National Chains: This is where things get trickier. National pizza chains rarely offer calzones consistently on their main menu. Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and Papa John’s, for example, typically focus on pizzas and related items. However, it’s always worth checking their websites or apps for limited-time promotions or customizable options that might include calzones.

Here’s a simple table summarizing the general availability:

Tips for Calzone Hunting

• Online Menus: Always check the pizzeria’s online menu before visiting or ordering. This will save you time and ensure they actually offer calzones.
• Local Reviews: Read online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the quality and availability of calzones at different pizza places.
• Call Ahead: If you’re unsure, give the pizzeria a call to confirm whether they have calzones and if they offer customizable fillings.
• “Create Your Own” Options: Some pizzerias allow you to “create your own” pizza and then request it to be made as a calzone. This can be a good way to get a calzone even if it’s not explicitly listed on the menu.

Common Calzone Fillings and Variations

The beauty of the calzone lies in its versatility. While certain fillings are considered classic, the possibilities are endless. Here are some popular choices:

• Ricotta and Mozzarella: The cornerstone of most calzones, providing a creamy and cheesy base.
• Ham or Salami: Adds a savory and salty element.
• Spinach: A healthy and flavorful addition.
• Pepperoni: A classic pizza topping that translates well to calzones.
• Mushrooms: Adds an earthy and savory flavor.
• Peppers and Onions: Provides a sweet and slightly spicy kick.
• Spicy Sausage: For those who like a bit of heat.

Some pizzerias offer specialty calzones with unique and innovative fillings, such as:

• Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzone: A creamy and savory combination.
• Buffalo Chicken Calzone: For lovers of spicy buffalo wings.
• Vegetarian Calzone: Filled with a variety of fresh vegetables.

Mastering the Art of the Homemade Calzone

Making calzones at home is easier than you might think! Here’s a simplified process:

1. Prepare the Dough: Use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch.
2. Prepare the Fillings: Gather your desired ingredients and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Assemble the Calzone: Divide the dough into individual portions. Spread ricotta cheese over half of each portion, leaving a border around the edge. Add your remaining fillings.
4. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal the calzone. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
5. Bake: Brush the calzones with olive oil or an egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the calzones cool slightly before serving with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Soggy Calzone: This often results from adding too much filling, especially vegetables with high water content. Drain excess moisture from vegetables before adding them to the calzone.
• Burst Calzone: This happens when the calzone isn’t properly sealed or when steam builds up inside. Make sure to pinch the edges tightly and create a small vent on top to allow steam to escape.
• Unevenly Cooked Calzone: Ensure your oven is properly preheated and rotate the calzones halfway through baking for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I request a calzone at a pizza place that doesn’t list it on the menu?

It’s always worth asking! Some pizza places are willing to accommodate custom requests, especially if they have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Explain what you’re looking for, and they might be able to create a calzone for you, especially if they offer a “create your own” pizza option. Don’t be afraid to ask!

What’s the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?

While both are Italian baked goods filled with pizza-like ingredients, there are key differences. Calzones typically contain ricotta cheese, while strombolis usually do not. Additionally, calzones are traditionally folded in half, while strombolis are rolled up like a log. Strombolis are also often sliced before baking.

Are calzones typically served with marinara sauce?

Yes, marinara sauce is the most common accompaniment. It provides a flavorful dipping sauce for the calzone. However, some pizzerias might offer other dipping sauces, such as ranch or garlic butter.

Are calzones healthier than pizza?

It depends on the ingredients and portion size. Calzones tend to be denser and contain more cheese than a single slice of pizza, potentially leading to higher calorie and fat content. However, you can make healthier choices by opting for leaner fillings and smaller portions.

Can I freeze calzones for later?

Absolutely! Calzones freeze well, making them a great option for meal prepping. Allow the baked calzones to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.

What’s the best cheese to use in a calzone?

Ricotta and mozzarella are the classic choices, providing a creamy and gooey texture. However, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as provolone, parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor.

Can I make a calzone with gluten-free dough?

Yes, you can easily adapt calzone recipes to be gluten-free by using gluten-free pizza dough. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free pizza dough options, or you can make your own from scratch.

How do I prevent my calzone from bursting in the oven?

Creating a small vent on top of the calzone before baking is crucial. This allows steam to escape, preventing pressure buildup that could cause the calzone to burst. Make sure the vent is sufficient but not too large, or the filling might leak out.

What vegetables work best in calzones?

Spinach, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and olives are all excellent choices. Avoid vegetables with high water content that can make the calzone soggy unless you pre-cook and drain them.

Can I add sauce inside the calzone before baking?

It’s generally not recommended to add a lot of sauce inside the calzone, as it can make the dough soggy. Instead, serve the sauce on the side for dipping. A small amount of sauce is often used to help bind the ingredients together.

How long does it take to bake a calzone?

The baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the calzone, as well as your oven temperature. Generally, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Are there vegetarian or vegan calzone options?

Yes, absolutely! Vegetarian calzones can be filled with ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and other vegetables. Vegan calzones can be made using vegan cheese substitutes and plant-based fillings. The possibilities are endless!

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