Difference Between Stromboli and Calzone

Italian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors and dishes that have been enjoyed by people all over the world. Two of the most popular dishes that have originated in Italy are Stromboli and Calzone. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are several key differences between the two.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between Stromboli and Calzone, including their origin, ingredients, preparation, and presentation.

Stromboli

Stromboli is a type of Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the early 1950s. It is named after the volcanic island of Stromboli, which is located off the coast of Sicily.

Stromboli is essentially a type of rolled pizza that is filled with various ingredients and then baked in the oven. The filling typically consists of Italian meats, such as salami, pepperoni, and ham, as well as cheese, vegetables, and sometimes sauce.

The dough for Stromboli is typically made from the same ingredients as pizza dough, including flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes sugar or olive oil. The dough is rolled out into a rectangle or oval shape and then the filling is spread on top. The dough is then rolled up, similar to a jelly roll, and then baked in the oven until it is golden brown and crispy.

Stromboli is typically served sliced, with each slice revealing a cross-section of the filling inside. It is often served with marinara sauce or other dipping sauces on the side.

Calzone

Calzone is another Italian dish that is often compared to Stromboli, but there are several key differences between the two. Calzone means "trouser" in Italian, and the dish gets its name from its shape, which resembles a folded trouser leg.

Calzone is essentially a type of pizza that is folded in half and then baked in the oven. The filling for Calzone is similar to that of Stromboli, consisting of meats, cheese, vegetables, and sauce.

The dough for Calzone is also similar to that of pizza dough, but it is typically rolled out into a circle shape rather than a rectangle or oval. The filling is then spread on one half of the dough, and the other half is folded over and sealed to create a half-moon shape.

Calzone is also typically served sliced, with each slice revealing a cross-section of the filling inside. It is often served with marinara sauce or other dipping sauces on the side.

Key Differences

While Stromboli and Calzone may seem similar, there are several key differences between the two:

  1. Shape: The most obvious difference between Stromboli and Calzone is their shape. Stromboli is a long, cylindrical roll, while Calzone is a half-moon shape.

  2. Filling: While the filling for Stromboli and Calzone can be similar, there are some differences. Stromboli tends to have a wider variety of fillings, while Calzone typically has a more traditional pizza filling.

  3. Presentation: Stromboli is typically served sliced, while Calzone is often served as a whole or sliced in half.

  4. Origin: Stromboli is an Italian-American dish that originated in the United States, while Calzone is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

  5. Cooking method: Stromboli is typically rolled up and baked, while Calzone is folded over and baked.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between Stromboli and Calzone will depend on your personal preferences. If you are looking for a dish with a wider variety of fillings and a unique shape, Stromboli may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a more traditional pizza filling and a classic half-moon shape, then Calzone is the better choice.

It's also worth noting that both dishes can be customized to suit your tastes. You can add or remove ingredients to create a filling that you love, and you can experiment with different sauces and dipping options to find the perfect combination.

Conclusion

In summary, while Stromboli and Calzone may seem similar at first glance, there are several key differences between the two. Stromboli is a long, cylindrical roll filled with a variety of ingredients and baked, while Calzone is a folded pizza filled with traditional pizza ingredients. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, but both dishes offer a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please any pizza lover.