Variations of a particular dish is no new concept, and that applies to pizza, as well, writes Nikita Ephanov for Food Republic.
Notably, there’s the pizzaz pizza. This kind of pizza is void of any sauce, and is topped with sliced tomatoes, banana peppers, American cheese, oregano.
The pizazz pizza has ties to South Philadelphia, with Celebre’s Pizzeria claiming credit for invention this specific slice during the 1980s.
According to reports, the pie’s composition was to be a replication of a grilled cheese. In time and with some tinkering, it became a staple on its menu.
As the pizazz gained success at Celebre’s, other businesses replicated the recipe. However, it never became a citywide favorite like a New York slice or a deep dish from Chicago or Detroit.
The American cheese is what really sets the pizazz slice apart from the rest.
However, variations of the slice exist. Some may add mozzarella. Celebre’s slices are a classic circular shape, while a slice from Cacia’s Bakery is square. Meanwhile, the crusts may vary from thick to thin.
However, the main ingredients — American cheese, tomatoes, banana peppers, oregano, and no sauce — remain constant throughout.
Read more about the South Philly-centric pizazz pizza slice and how it came to be at Food Republic.
_____
