Buffalo, New York, is known for a few things: snow, the Bills, and, of course, Buffalo wings. But there’s another culinary creation that often flies under the radar – Buffalo-style pizza. While not as globally famous as its spicy, saucy sibling, Buffalo pizza boasts a unique character that sets it apart from other regional pizza styles. It’s a pizza that locals fiercely love and defend, and once you understand its nuances, you might just become a convert yourself.
The Hallmarks of Buffalo Pizza
Buffalo pizza isn’t just pizza made in Buffalo. It’s a distinct style characterized by specific elements that contribute to its overall flavor and texture. These characteristics have evolved over time, reflecting the city’s tastes and pizza-making traditions.
The Dough: A Foundation of Flavor
The foundation of any great pizza is, of course, the dough. Buffalo pizza dough is often described as somewhere between a New York-style and a Detroit-style crust. It’s typically a medium-thickness crust, not super thin like a New York slice, but definitely not as thick and airy as a deep-dish Chicago pie or a Detroit square. This crust offers a satisfying chewiness with a slight crispness on the bottom.
Buffalo pizza dough often has a subtly sweet flavor. This sweetness isn’t overpowering, but it’s a noticeable characteristic that differentiates it from other styles. Some pizzerias achieve this sweetness by adding a touch of sugar or honey to their dough recipe. This little touch of sweetness beautifully complements the other flavors, creating a well-balanced profile.
The dough also undergoes a specific proofing process, allowing it to develop a good rise and airy pockets within the crust. This contributes to the overall texture, giving it a lightness that contrasts with the substantial toppings.
The Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Symphony
The sauce is arguably the defining characteristic of Buffalo pizza. Unlike the tangy, acidic tomato sauces found on many pizzas, Buffalo pizza sauce leans towards the sweeter side. This sweetness is often balanced by a subtle spice blend that adds depth and complexity.
Many pizzerias use a blend of herbs and spices like oregano, basil, garlic powder, and sometimes a hint of red pepper flakes to give the sauce a gentle kick. The sweetness of the sauce is not cloying or artificial; rather, it’s a natural sweetness that enhances the other flavors and prevents the pizza from becoming too heavy or acidic.
The sauce is typically applied generously, covering the entire surface of the dough. This ample sauce coverage contributes to the overall moistness and flavor of the pizza.
The Cheese: A Generous Blanket of Goodness
Cheese is a crucial component of any pizza, and Buffalo pizza doesn’t skimp on this ingredient. The cheese used is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone, providing a rich, melty, and slightly tangy flavor.
The cheese is applied generously, creating a thick, gooey layer that blankets the sauce and toppings. The cheese should stretch beautifully when you pull a slice away from the pie. It must be flavorful and compliment the other flavors of the pizza without overpowering them.
The Pepperoni: A Tiny Cup of Crispy Delight
Pepperoni is a staple topping on Buffalo pizza, but not just any pepperoni will do. Buffalo pizzerias often use a specific type of pepperoni that curls into a small cup shape as it cooks. This “cup and char” pepperoni becomes crispy around the edges, concentrating the flavorful oils and spices within the cup.
The “cup and char” pepperoni provides a delightful burst of flavor and texture with every bite. The crispy edges add a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft dough and cheese. The pepperoni isn’t just a topping; it’s an integral part of the Buffalo pizza experience.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Regional Twists
While the elements discussed above represent the core of Buffalo pizza, there are variations and regional twists that can be found throughout Western New York.
The White Pizza Option
While tomato sauce is the traditional base, some pizzerias offer a white pizza version, featuring a creamy garlic and herb sauce instead. This variation provides a different flavor profile, highlighting the cheese and toppings. The white pizza is often topped with ricotta cheese, spinach, and other vegetables.
Toppings Beyond Pepperoni
While pepperoni is the king of Buffalo pizza toppings, other options are available. Sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers are common choices. Some pizzerias also offer specialty pizzas with unique topping combinations, such as chicken wing pizza, steak pizza, or vegetable medley.
The Importance of Local Ingredients
Many Buffalo pizzerias pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This includes fresh produce, locally made cheeses, and locally produced sausage and pepperoni. Using local ingredients supports the community and enhances the flavor of the pizza.
The Buffalo Pizza Experience
Eating Buffalo pizza is more than just consuming a meal; it’s an experience. It’s often shared with family and friends. It’s part of the cultural fabric of the region.
A Community Staple
Buffalo pizza is a staple at community events, sports gatherings, and family celebrations. It’s a food that brings people together and creates a sense of shared identity.
Finding Authentic Buffalo Pizza
The best way to experience authentic Buffalo pizza is to visit a local pizzeria in Western New York. Many of these pizzerias have been family-owned and operated for generations, using recipes and techniques passed down through the years. Look for pizzerias that advertise “cup and char” pepperoni and homemade sauce.
Buffalo Pizza vs. Other Styles
Understanding Buffalo pizza involves comparing it to other well-known pizza styles. This highlights the unique aspects that make Buffalo pizza stand out.
Buffalo vs. New York Pizza
New York-style pizza is known for its thin, foldable crust and tangy tomato sauce. Buffalo pizza, on the other hand, has a slightly thicker, chewier crust and a sweeter sauce. New York pizza is often served in large slices, while Buffalo pizza is typically cut into smaller squares or slices.
Buffalo vs. Detroit Pizza
Detroit-style pizza is characterized by its thick, rectangular crust with a crispy, caramelized cheese edge. Buffalo pizza has a thinner crust than Detroit pizza and lacks the signature caramelized cheese edge. Detroit pizza is typically topped with stripes of sauce after baking, while Buffalo pizza has the sauce applied before baking.
Buffalo vs. Chicago Pizza
Chicago-style pizza is known for its deep-dish crust and thick layer of toppings. Buffalo pizza is much thinner and lighter than Chicago pizza. Chicago pizza is more of a casserole-like dish, while Buffalo pizza is a more traditional pizza style.
Making Buffalo Pizza at Home
While the best Buffalo pizza is undoubtedly found in Buffalo, it is possible to recreate the experience at home. Here are some tips for making Buffalo-style pizza in your own kitchen.
The Dough Recipe
Start with a basic pizza dough recipe, adding a touch of sugar or honey for sweetness. Allow the dough to rise for at least an hour before stretching it out. The perfect dough is always worth the wait.
The Sauce Recipe
Create your own Buffalo-style pizza sauce by combining tomato sauce with oregano, basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add a small amount of sugar or honey to achieve the desired sweetness. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Finding “Cup and Char” Pepperoni
Finding authentic “cup and char” pepperoni may be the biggest challenge for those outside of Western New York. Look for pepperoni that is specifically labeled as “cup and char” or “crisp and curl.” If you can’t find it, use the best quality pepperoni you can find and cook it until it is slightly crispy.
Baking Your Pizza
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Stretch out the dough and place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, followed by the cheese and pepperoni. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The Future of Buffalo Pizza
Buffalo pizza is a beloved culinary tradition that is likely to endure for many years to come. As the city continues to evolve, so too may its pizza.
Preserving Tradition
Many pizzerias are committed to preserving the traditional methods and recipes that have made Buffalo pizza so popular. These pizzerias serve as guardians of the Buffalo pizza tradition, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this unique culinary creation.
Embracing Innovation
While preserving tradition is important, some pizzerias are also experimenting with new flavors and techniques. This can lead to exciting new variations on the classic Buffalo pizza style, while still maintaining the core elements that define it.
In Conclusion: A Taste of Buffalo
Buffalo pizza is more than just a pizza; it’s a symbol of the city’s culinary identity. Its unique combination of sweet sauce, chewy crust, generous cheese, and crispy “cup and char” pepperoni makes it a truly special pizza experience. Whether you’re a lifelong Buffalonian or a first-time visitor, be sure to try a slice of Buffalo pizza and discover why it’s such a beloved local favorite. It truly offers a delicious taste of Buffalo.
What makes Buffalo pizza different from other regional styles?
Buffalo pizza distinguishes itself through several key characteristics. The sauce often has a slightly sweeter profile, achieved using a combination of herbs and spices unique to the region, differing from the more savory or acidic sauces found elsewhere. Additionally, the crust tends to be on the thicker side, but not quite as thick as a deep-dish, offering a satisfying chewiness and a sturdy base for the toppings.
The cheese used is generally a generous blend of mozzarella, often of a higher fat content than you might find on pizzas in other areas. This results in a richer, more flavorful, and more melty cheese pull. It also makes it more distinct than New York style which is thinner, uses a thinner sauce, and has lower moisture mozzarella.
What kind of toppings are commonly found on Buffalo pizza?
Traditional toppings remain popular, with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions being staples. However, Buffalo pizza often features specific variations or combinations. One such combination is pepperoni with cup and char which caramelizes and holds the sauce.
Buffalo chicken wing flavors have significantly influenced pizza toppings. You can often find pizzas topped with grilled or breaded chicken tossed in Buffalo wing sauce, accompanied by blue cheese dressing and celery, mirroring the classic wing experience.
Is the crust on Buffalo pizza crispy or chewy?
Buffalo pizza crust leans towards the chewy side, offering a substantial bite. It’s not as thin and crispy as a New York-style pizza, nor is it as dense and doughy as a Chicago deep-dish.
The crust is typically baked to a golden-brown perfection, providing a firm foundation for the toppings. While it may have some slight crispness around the edges, the overall texture remains pleasantly chewy and satisfying.
What is the sauce typically like on Buffalo pizza?
The sauce on Buffalo pizza often surprises people with its subtle sweetness. This sweetness doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors but rather adds a unique dimension to the overall taste profile. It is usually herbaceous, but the exact recipe and the ratio of sweetness to herbs differs greatly between shops.
While tomato-based, it’s typically seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that create a distinctive flavor. Some recipes incorporate a touch of sugar or other sweeteners to achieve that characteristic Buffalo sweetness.
How does Buffalo pizza compare to New York-style pizza?
Buffalo pizza and New York-style pizza, while both delicious, offer distinct experiences. New York-style pizza is known for its thin, foldable crust, its simple tomato sauce, and its use of low-moisture mozzarella. The crust is crispier and the sauce is often tangier.
Buffalo pizza, in contrast, features a thicker, chewier crust, a sweeter sauce, and often a generous helping of high-fat mozzarella. While New York-style pizzas are known for their size and portability, Buffalo pizzas tend to be heartier and more substantial.
Are there any famous pizzerias in Buffalo known for their unique pizza styles?
Yes, Buffalo boasts a number of well-regarded pizzerias each with their own distinct take on the Buffalo pizza style. Bocce Club Pizza, for instance, is renowned for its thin crust and sheet-style pizzas cut into squares. Their pizzas are popular across the city.
Other notable spots include La Nova Pizzeria, known for their chicken wing-inspired pizzas, and Imperial Pizza, a local favorite known for its classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas. These are just a few examples, and there are many other smaller establishments that contribute to the city’s vibrant pizza scene.
Where did Buffalo-style pizza originate?
The exact origins are difficult to pinpoint to a single pizzeria or individual. It likely evolved organically over time, influenced by the tastes and preferences of the local community, and immigrants from Southern Italy.
It is commonly believed to have developed in the mid-20th century, drawing inspiration from New York-style pizza but with its own distinct variations. The unique sweetness of the sauce, the chewier crust, and the generous use of cheese are all hallmarks of this homegrown style.