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Stromboli vs Calzone: The Differences

May 8th 2023 - Team

Stromboli vs Calzone: The Differences

We've got you covered if you're perusing a takeaway menu and trying to decide between a calzone and a stromboli. The similarities and differences between them are outlined below.

Stromboli vs Calzone: The Differences

Calzone and stromboli are distinct in their dough, form, sealing method, fillings, and country of origin. While they have certain similarities and are both tasty, knowing the distinction between the two can help you make a more educated choice the next time you order Italian Dishes.

Dough, Shape, And Sealing Technique

Calzones and strombolis are essentially the same thing with different shapes. Calzones are prepared by folding a pizza dough round in half and closing the edges, whereas strombolis are made by rolling a square sheet of dough into a cylindrical log.

Ingredients

The ingredients are another major difference in each recipe. Flavorful cheeses, tomato sauce, and other savory components are common to calzones and strombolis, but the meat or veggies distinguish them. Stromboli fillings typically include a wider variety of fillings including sausage, peppers, and onions than calzones, which typically only feature cured meats like salami and pepperoni.

Sealing Technique

The variation in the sealing process is also worth mentioning. Strombolis, on the other hand, are twisted into a log shape and sealed with a twist, as opposed to Italian calzones, which are sealed by pressing down on the edges of the dough with a fork.

Origin

The history of the calzone begins in 18th-century Naples, Italy. Although the exact beginnings of stromboli are unclear, they were probably developed in the 1950s by Italian Immigrants.

Fillings

The fillings are also noticeably different. Strombolis can have a wide variety of creative fillings including veggies, sausage, and other meats while calzones often have cheese and cured meats like salami or pepperoni.

Serving

Strombolis can be eaten either hot or cold, but calzones are typically served hot.

What is Stromboli?

Since Stromboli was first created in Philadelphia, it is fair to say that it is an Italian-American invention. It is made of a thinner dough topped with cheese (often mozzarella), meats, veggies, and (sometimes) tomato sauce. Long stromboli is made by folding or wrapping the dough around the filling and then cutting it into spiral slices. Tomato sauce is optional and can be provided on the side for dipping.

How do I make a stromboli?

  • A stromboli can be made by cutting a ball of pizza dough in half or leaving it as a single huge ball, depending on the desired serving size. Make a long rectangle by rolling it.
  • Mozzarella cheese is the base, and you can add everything from more cheese to cured meats to a light coating of tomato sauce to fresh vegetables and more on top.
  • To make a rectangle, fold one long side of the dough over the center. Make a letter fold with the opposite side on top.
  • Egg wash or olive oil can be used to glaze the stromboli before they are baked in a hot oven.
  • Slice and serve.

What is a calzone?

Calzones, a portable version of pizza, originated in Naples, Italy. It is a flat circular dough that has various toppings added to it. The most popular cheese is ricotta, which is often mixed with mozzarella or other types of cheese. The filling is placed in the center and the piece of dough is folded over the top to form a half-moon. Calzones are typically served in bite-sized portions with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

How do you make a calzone?

  • Make a calzone by spreading your preferred cheese and toppings over half of a tiny circle of pizza or bread dough.
  • To make a taco, fold the side that doesn't have fillings over and crimp the edges to seal.
  • The egg wash will help seal the dough and give it a golden brown color.
  • Calzones can be deep-fried in addition to being baked. Use the marinara sauce as a dipping sauce.

How to Eat or Serve Calzone and Stromboli?

Sliced Stromboli can be served either warm or at room temperature. Grab a piece and dig in, using the tomato sauce as a dip if you like. Calzones are traditionally served hot, with a warm tomato sauce on the side. Calzones, like pizza, are typically served in individual portions and are best eaten by tearing it open and dipping it in the sauce.

How to store calzones and stromboli

  • Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or a sealed container to keep them fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
  • To reheat, bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes.
  • Once calzones and stromboli have cooled, wrap them in a freezer-safe bag and keep them in a refrigerator.
  • Cold storage in a refrigerator can be done for up to three months. If you want to reheat it, you can bake it at 350 degrees F (175 C) for 25-30 minutes.

Where to buy calzones and strombolis?

Premade calzones and strombolis can be found in the freezer department of many supermarkets.

If you want calzones or stromboli made in traditional Italian fashion, try your local pizzerias and Italian eateries.

You can also make calzones and strombolis at home. It is simple now that premade pizza dough is available at most supermarkets.