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You have likely savored various pizza styles, from Neapolitan thin crust to Chicago deep dish. However, the distinct allure of Old Forge pizza, with its rectangular shape and unconventional toppings distribution, may still be a novel delight for you.
This guide explores into the origins, unique features, and expert advice related to Old Forge pizza, offering you a comprehensive understanding of this distinguished rectangular pizza variant. Prepare to explore the intricacies behind this renowned pizza style, enhancing your culinary knowledge and appreciation.
The Rich History of Old Forge Pizza
Old Forge Pizza traces its roots to a bustling coal town rich with Italian immigrant heritage. Situated in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, Old Forge has become emblematic of its distinctive style of pizza, a testament to the Italian immigrant community’s significant contribution to the local culinary landscape. This unique style includes the celebrated red and white pizzas, each a staple in its own right.
The red pizza is known for its crispy crust, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and a layer of melty cheese, offering a classic yet unforgettable taste. In contrast, the white pizza, reminiscent of a calzone, is generously filled with cheese, presenting a different but equally satisfying flavor profile. These pizzas highlight Old Forge’s rich cultural heritage, making them a cherished tradition for both residents and visitors.
Anyone visiting Lackawanna County is encouraged to experience an authentic Old Forge pizzeria, a slice of history that continues to delight palates to this day.
Unique Characteristics of Old Forge Pizza
Old Forge pizza distinguishes itself in the pizza universe through its rectangular shape, deviating from the conventional round pizzas. This style, baked in rectangular metal trays, not only offers an alternative presentation but also employs a unique baking approach. The cheese blend on Old Forge pizza varies by establishment but often includes a rich and diverse mix of mozzarella, parmesan, Romano, American, among other cheeses, contributing to its distinctive taste.
A hallmark of Old Forge pizza is its crust, which achieves a notable balance of being crispy on the bottom while retaining a chewy texture beneath the sauce. The sauce itself is a key element, characterized by a slightly oniony and sweet flavor, contributing to the pizza’s unique and memorable flavor profile. This baking style and the choice of presentation in trays rather than traditional circular pies have roots in Italian immigrant influences, enhancing the pizza’s authenticity and appeal.
Top Old Forge Pizza Spots to Visit
For those eager to embark on an Old Forge pizza adventure, several top spots await to provide a delightful culinary experience. Located in Lackawanna County, Old Forge is celebrated for its distinctive red and white pizzas that cater to diverse palates. Salerno’s Cafe is notable for its unique flavors in both red and white pizza varieties.
Meanwhile, Cusumano pizzeria offers a more upscale dining experience, presenting guests with an array of pizza options. Arcaro & Genell’s is a go-to place for enthusiasts of cheesier red pizza and richly flavored white pizza. Revello’s, with its ’50s diner ambiance, ranks high among Old Forge pizza cafes, serving scrumptious red and white pizzas.
Each of these establishments plays a pivotal role in maintaining the town’s status as a premier pizza destination. Whether one has a penchant for the traditional red pizza or seeks the distinctiveness of white pizza, Old Forge’s selection of pizza spots is sure to gratify all cravings. The savory delights available at Mary Lou’s and Revello’s aren’t to be missed by anyone looking to indulge in the best pizza offerings in Old Forge.
Here’s a list of Old Forge and Old Forge-style pizzas:
- Arcaro & Genell
- Anthony’s
- Samario’s (located in Scranton)
- Colarusso’s Cafe (located in Avoca)
- Maroni’s
- Mary Lou’s
- Elio G’s
- Revello’s Pizza Cafe
- Salerno’s Cafe
- Cafe Rinaldi
- Cusumano’s
- Pizza By Pappas (located in Moosic)
- Primaveras Pizza (located in Taylor)
- Vincenzo’s Pizzeria & Catering (located in Scranton)
- Grande Pizza Restaurant & Bar (located in Dunmore)
- Nardozzi’s Pizza (located in Dunmore)
- Two Brothers Restaurant & Pizzeria (located in Dunmore)
- Andy’s Pizza (located in Valley View)
- Barrett’s Pub (located in Valley View)
- Benny’s (located in Valley View)
- Café Colarusso (located in Valley View)
- Tony’s Pizza (located in Valley View)
- Domenick’s Pizza & Hoagies (located in Carbondale)
- Frank’s Place (located in Carbondale)
- Kay’s Pizza (located in Carbondale)
- Peanut Bar (located in Carbondale)
- Windsor Inn (located in Carbondale)
How to Make Old Forge Pizza at Home
To prepare Old Forge pizza at home, one should initiate the process by selecting high-quality ingredients and obtaining a rectangular metal pan essential for baking. This specific style of pizza is celebrated for its distinctive crust texture, which is achieved by employing these pans at elevated temperatures.
For an authentic flavor, incorporate a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, parmesan, and romano. Some use a little white American cheese. The essence of replicating Old Forge pizza resides in the sauce, characterized by a slightly sweet and oniony flavor profile that distinguishes it from other pizza types.
The goal in homemade Old Forge pizza preparation is to ensure a crispy bottom crust while maintaining a chewy texture beneath the sauce layer. It’s beneficial to explore various cheese combinations, sauce formulations, and baking methods to craft a personalized version of Old Forge pizza. This endeavor allows one to enjoy a slice of Old Forge tradition through a homemade pizza creation.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Old Forge Pizza
To maximize the enjoyment of Old Forge pizza, personalizing your toppings can significantly enhance the taste and texture of this distinctive dish. When placing your order, it’s advisable to request cuts instead of traditional slices and trays instead of pies to truly appreciate the unique baking method that gives Old Forge pizza its signature rectangular, metal pan-baked crusts.
It’s essential to experience both the red variety, which features a traditional crust adorned with sauce and cheese, and the white variety, a sauceless double-crusted pizza generously filled with cheese. While visiting Lackawanna County, taking the time to explore the renowned pizza shops along the Lackawanna County Pizza Trail can provide a deeper insight into the various delicious Old Forge pizza variations available.
Participating in a pizza crawl in Old Forge, possibly guided by Mayor Bob Mulkerin, allows for the sampling of an extensive selection of both red and white pizzas. Engaging with the rich history and diverse flavors of Old Forge pizza offers a truly memorable culinary journey.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned about the rich history, unique characteristics, top spots to visit, how to make it at home, and insider tips for enjoying Old Forge pizza, you’re ready to dive into the delicious world of this iconic pizza style.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Old Forge pizza is a must-try experience that will leave your taste buds satisfied and craving more. Enjoy your pizza adventures in the Pizza Capital of the World!
Bobby Warren has been making pizzas since he was in high school. He first started cooking pizzas at Lovece’s Pizza Palace in 1980. Since then, he has been on a quest to learn and teach others how to make the best pizza at home. When he is not making pizzas, he is working as an SEO specialist for publishers and digital marketing agencies around the United States.