Experience the delicious and hearty flavors of Traditional Calzone. This classic Italian stuffed pizza combines rich cheeses, savory meats, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, crispy dough. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.
Inspiring Quote
“Cooking is love made visible.” – Anonymous
Recipe Description
Calzone is a beloved Italian dish that originates from Naples. Its name means “trouser” in Italian, referring to the way the dough wraps around the fillings like a pocket. A traditional calzone is essentially a folded pizza, filled with a variety of ingredients such as mozzarella, ricotta, meats, and vegetables. This dish became popular as a portable meal for workers and has since become a staple in Italian cuisine. Enjoy making this delicious and versatile dish at home with this detailed recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Procedure
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Calzone: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Place a generous amount of filling on one half of each circle, leaving a border around the edge. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked. Cut a small slit in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Calzone, a delicious Italian stuffed pizza that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich, savory filling and crispy dough, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Additional Notes
- Feel free to customize the fillings to your taste. Spinach, artichokes, and different cheeses can all make great additions.
- Calzones can be made ahead and frozen before baking. Simply thaw and bake when ready to eat.
Beverage Pairings
Calzone pairs well with:
- Wine: A robust red wine such as Chianti or a medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the rich flavors of the calzone.
- Beer: A light lager or a pilsner pairs nicely with this dish.
- Non-alcoholic: A sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a chilled iced tea are great options.
