Americans love to eat! According to a recent survey, the single most popular food in America is pizza. After pizza, the other top four most popular foods in the United States are hamburgers, tacos, Chinese food, and chicken.
What Makes Pizza America’s Favorite?
Perhaps one of the main reasons pizza is on top of the list of America’s favorite foods is the sheer variety. From thick crust to deep dish, you have a range of options when it comes to pizza. It can also be customized to your own taste with different toppings and it is also a very affordable option for a quick snack or dinner.
A Guide to the Different Types of Pizza
Pizza comes in many forms. Here is a guide to the different types of pizza you can choose from:
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Classic Pizza: The classic pizza is the most basic type. It is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and sometimes pepperoni. It is considered to be the classic “American” pizza.
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Sicilian Pizza: Sicily is known for its thick and dense crust pizzas. They are made with a thick, soft dough and are usually baked in a deep pan.
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Neapolitan Pizza: This type of pizza originated in Naples, Italy. It has a thin and crispy crust with tomatoes, mozzarella, and a few other toppings.
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Stuffed Pizza: Stuffed pizza is made with an extra layer of dough at the bottom, which is then filled with cheese, sauce, and other ingredients.
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Deep Dish Pizza: Deep dish pizza is an American favorite. It is made with a thick layer of crust that is filled with cheese and other ingredients. The pizza is then cooked in a deep-dish pan.
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Thin Crust Pizza: Thin crust pizza has a thinner and crispier crust than other types of pizza. It is usually lighter in calories than other types of pizza and is best served with light toppings.
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Chicago-Style Pizza: Chicago-style pizza is similar to deep dish, but it is usually bigger and has a thicker crust. It is usually topped with a wide variety of toppings.
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California-Style Pizza: This type of pizza is characterized by a thin and crispy crust and is usually topped with fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Toppings That Make Pizza Even Better
Pizza is not just about the crust; the toppings are just as important. Here are some traditional and some unique pizza toppings that make each pizza even better:
• Pepperoni
• Sausage
• Olives
• Pineapple
• Prosciutto
• Mushrooms
• Bacon
• Artichoke hearts
• Spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Caramelized onions
• Feta cheese
The Diversity of Toppings Reflects the Diversity of America
Pizza truly reflects the diversity of America. From classic pepperoni to Hawaiian pineapple, there is something for everyone’s taste. In a way, pizza encapsulates the American melting pot, and it can be enjoyed by all.
The Health Benefits of Pizza
Contrary to what some might think, pizza can actually be a healthy option. The key is to choose the right toppings and make sure to limit the amount of cheese you use.
Load up on the Veggies
By loading up on the vegetable toppings, you will get more nutrients and fewer calories. Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and they can also provide a stronger flavor than cheese.
Pick Lean Meats
If you prefer to add meat to your pizza, look for leaner options, such as chicken, turkey, and lean beef. This way you will get more protein and fewer calories.
Say Goodbye to Processed Meats
While processed meats can be tasty, they are often high in salt, saturated fat, and other unhealthy components. Try to avoid them when topping your pizza.
Trick Your Taste Buds
If you can’t bear the thought of leaving out the cheese, use a low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Trust me, your taste buds will not be able to tell the difference!
America’s favorite food, pizza, proves that no matter our heritage, Americans can come together and enjoy this classic dish. Whether you like it topped with vegetables, lean meats, or traditional pepperoni and cheese, everyone can find something they like. So get creative and enjoy a slice of America’s favorite food!
