Difference Between Calzone And Stromboli | Helpful Guides

Are you trying to decide if you should order a calzone or stromboli? You’re not alone! People of all ages love the delicious taste and flavors that come with these two dishes. But have you ever wondered what is the difference between calzone and stromboli? In this blog post, we will answer that question and look at which type of dish may be best suited to your flavor preferences. So keep reading to learn more about calzones versus strombolis.

What Is Stromboli?

Before knowing difference between calzone and stromboli, The first thing you should know is understand is what exactly a stromboli is. A stromboli is an Italian-American dish that hails from the United States, specifically from the state of Pennsylvania. It was created by Nazzareno Romano in 1950 and named after the island of Stromboli in Italy.

Strombolis are made by rolling out pizza dough and filling it with a variety of toppings such as cheeses, meats, and vegetables. The dough is then rolled up into a log shape and baked in the oven until golden brown. Strombolis are typically served hot with dipping sauces on the side.

What Is A Calzone?

On the other hand, a calzone is an Italian dish that originated in Naples. The word “calzone” actually translates to “stocking” or “trouser” in English, which refers to the folded shape of this dish.

Calzones are made with pizza dough as well, but they are filled and then folded over into a half-moon shape before being baked. The filling can include similar ingredients as a stromboli, but many times it will also have ricotta cheese and marinara sauce inside.

History Of The Calzone And Stromboli

The calzone has a rich history dating back to the 18th century in Naples, Italy. In contrast, the stromboli’s origins are more recent, tracing back to the 1950s in Philadelphia.

The Calzone

The calzone, originating from 18th-century Naples, Italy, served as a portable pizza. Initially folded in half before baking, it became a half-moon-shaped pocket filled with delightful layers of cheese. Over time, chefs discovered that the calzone’s structure and dough thickness could accommodate a variety of substantial toppings, including meats, cheeses, and vegetables. This culinary adaptation allowed for a richer and more indulgent calzone experience.

Stromboli

Stromboli, a relative newcomer compared to the calzone, has a history spanning approximately 80 years. Originating in Philadelphia during the 1950s, credit for inventing the authentic stromboli goes to Nazzareno Romano, a restaurant owner. The name for this delectable creation was inspired by a movie released around that time, which gained notoriety for a scandalous off-screen affair between one of the actresses and the director, leading to the birth of a love child.

Difference Between Calzone And Stromboli

Calzones and strombolis have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from each other. Let’s explore the key difference between calzone and stromboli:

Sealing Technique

The sealing technique is the major contrast between calzones and strombolis. Calzones are folded in half and the edges are crimped to seal them, resembling a taco. In contrast, strombolis are rolled in a spiral shape, with some extra dough folded back over the filling, similar to a burrito.

Shape And Size

Due to the sealing techniques, calzones start as circle-shaped dough and when folded, they form a small half-circle. Calzones are typically considered single-serving. Strombolis, on the other hand, are shaped as elongated rectangles and rolled to create long, skinny, cylindrical pizza cigars. Strombolis are meant to be sliced and served to multiple people.

Origin

Calzones have their roots in Naples, Italy. They were initially created as a street food alternative to pizza and have variations in ingredients and techniques across different regions in Italy. Strombolis, however, originated in Philadelphia, USA, in the Italian-heavy neighborhood of South Philly. They were named after the Italian Isle of Stromboli, which boasts a volcano called Mt. Stromboli.

Fillings

Although there is some overlap in fillings between calzones and strombolis, two factors set them apart. Calzones typically incorporate ricotta cheese into the filling, while strombolis do not. Instead, strombolis use mozzarella cheese (preferably low-moisture) to ensure the interior dough is fully cooked. Additionally, calzones are generally not filled with tomato sauce, whereas strombolis can have sauce inside them, pre-roll.

Understanding these differences will help you appreciate the unique qualities and flavors that calzones and strombolis bring to the table.

How To Make A Calzone?

Now that we have discussed difference between calzone and stromboli, let’s go over how to make one. Here is a simple recipe you can follow:

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup chopped pepperoni or preferred toppings

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough into a circle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
4. Spread the mixture onto half of the pizza dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Add your desired toppings on top of the cheese mixture.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over and seal by crimping the edges together.
7. Cut slits into the top of the calzone to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

How To Make A Stromboli?

Beside understanding difference between calzone and stromboli, you should know how to make a stromboli. Here is a simple recipe to make stromboli at home:

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup chopped pepperoni or preferred toppings

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread marinara sauce on top of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings on top of the cheese.
6. Starting from one short end, tightly roll up the dough into a spiral shape and seal the edges by pressing them together.
7. Cut slits into the top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQ: calzone vs stromboli

Why is a stromboli called a stromboli?

The term “Stromboli” is derived from the Italian Isle of Stromboli. This Italian-American dish has its origins in the Italian-heavy neighborhood of South Philly in Philadelphia.

How does calzone taste like?

Calzones offer a versatile and delectable culinary experience with a wide range of flavors. Unlike traditional pizza, calzones can be filled with various sweet and savory ingredients, resulting in a delightful combination of tastes and textures.

Is calzone healthier than pizza?

The calzone and pizza, despite sharing similar ingredients and taste, differ in terms of healthiness. While a slice of pizza typically contains around 300 calories, a calzone can equate to three slices of pizza. Therefore, it is important to make wise choices when deciding between the two.