Meat Calzone

The calzone, an Italian culinary delight, traces its origins to Naples, a city renowned for its rich and diverse food culture. The term "calzone" translates to "trouser" or "stocking" in Italian, symbolizing the folded, pocket-like nature of this dish. Originally, calzones were designed as portable meals, ideal for working-class Neapolitans who needed a convenient and filling option while on the go.

The traditional calzone is a crescent-shaped turnover made from pizza dough, filled with an array of ingredients such as cheeses, meats, and vegetables. The meat calzone specifically highlights the rich flavors of Italian cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni, often complemented by cheeses such as mozzarella and ricotta.

Italian sliders

Calzones gained popularity in the United States with the influx of Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, the dish evolved to incorporate a variety of local ingredients and preferences, making it a beloved staple in pizzerias across the country.

Ingredients for Meat Calzone

Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)

1 teaspoon sugar

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled

1 cup diced pepperoni or salami

1 cup marinara sauce (optional)

1 egg (for egg wash)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Time:

Dough Preparation: 1 hour (including rising time)

Filling and Assembly: 30 minutes

Baking: 20-25 minutes

Total: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours

Procedure

Preparing the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the mixture begins to come together.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling

Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the cooked sausage and diced pepperoni or salami. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Calzones

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.

Fill the Dough: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (if using) over half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Spoon the filling mixture over the sauce.

Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure they are fully closed.

Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush over the tops of the calzones. This will give them a golden-brown finish when baked.

Baking the Calzones

Bake: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Comments

Mastering Vegan Black Bean Soup: Ingredients, Procedure and Historical Roots

Black beans have been a staple in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines for centuries, with their origins tracing back to indigenous cultures in the Americas. Black Bean Soup, traditionally made with meat-based broths and seasonings, has been a cherished dish in these regions for generations. The adaptation of Black Bean Soup into a vegan-friendly recipe reflects the growing popularity of plant-based diets and the desire for healthier, more sustainable meal options. By omitting animal products and incorporating plant-based ingredients, such as vegetable broth and an array of vegetables and spices, Vegan Black Bean Soup offers a nutritious and flavorful alternative while staying true to the essence of the original dish. Today, Vegan Black Bean Soup is enjoyed not only in Latin American and Caribbean communities but also by people worldwide who appreciate its rich taste, hearty texture, and healthful ingredients. It continues to evolve with modern culinary trends, showcasing the versatil...

Stuffed Burgers

Stuffed burgers, also known as Juicy Lucy or Jucy Lucy, have become a popular twist on the traditional hamburger. The origins of the stuffed burger can be traced back to Minneapolis, Minnesota, in the 1950s. Two bars, Matt's Bar and the 5-8 Club, both claim to have invented the Juicy Lucy. The concept is simple yet revolutionary: instead of placing cheese on top of the burger patty, it is placed inside, creating a molten core of cheese that oozes out with the first bite. Over the years, the stuffed burger has evolved, with various fillings beyond cheese being used, such as bacon, mushrooms, jalapeños, and other ingredients. The ease of preparation and the customizable nature of the dish have contributed to its popularity among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Hoisin Chicken BLT Sandwich Ingredients for Easy Stuffed Burgers For four servings, you will need the following ingredients: Ground Beef: 1.5 pounds (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness) Cheddar Cheese: 4 slices (o...

Egg Salad Sandwich

The egg salad sandwich is a beloved classic, enjoyed by many for its simplicity and delicious taste. The history of this humble sandwich traces back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the rise of mayonnaise and other emulsified dressings. Let's delve into the origins and evolution of the egg salad sandwich. Classic Chicken Salad Ingredients and Procedure for Making an Egg Salad Sandwich Making an egg salad sandwich is straightforward and requires only a few ingredients. Here is a detailed recipe. Ingredients 4 large eggs 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives or green onions 1 tablespoon finely chopped celery (optional) Salt and pepper to taste 4 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or your preference) Lettuce leaves (optional) Procedure Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling b...

Italian Sliders

Italian sliders are a delightful fusion of American slider tradition and classic Italian flavors. This variation likely emerged in the late 20th or early 21st century, as culinary trends began to favor creative and international twists on traditional dishes. Italian sliders typically incorporate ingredients such as Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, and fresh basil, embodying the rich and savory taste of Italian cuisine. Today, Italian sliders are a popular choice at parties, gatherings, and casual dining settings. They are versatile and can be customized with various ingredients to suit personal preferences. Common variations include the use of different cheeses, adding pepperoni or prosciutto, and incorporating vegetables like roasted red peppers or arugula. Meat Calzone How to Prepare Italian Sliders Ingredients For a batch of 12 Italian sliders, you will need the following ingredients: For the sliders: 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on p...

A Delectable Classic: Cream of Tomato Soup - Recipe, History, and Preparation Guide

The roots of Cream of Tomato Soup trace back to ancient civilizations where tomatoes were first cultivated in Central and South America. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that tomatoes made their way to Europe, where they were initially met with skepticism due to misconceptions about their toxicity. Eventually, tomatoes gained popularity and became a staple ingredient in European cuisine. The earliest known recipe resembling modern Cream of Tomato Soup dates back to the 19th century. In 1872, Maria Parloa, an American author and cooking expert, published a recipe for "Tomato Chowder" in her book, "Miss Parloa's New Cook Book." This recipe laid the foundation for what would later evolve into Cream of Tomato Soup. As culinary techniques advanced and ingredients became more accessible, Cream of Tomato Soup grew in popularity, especially during the 20th century. It became a symbol of comfort and nostalgia, often associated with homemade meals and cozy ga...

Foodpackstore Blog

Search This Blog