Detroit Pizza Cheese: What Makes It So Unique?
Detroit-style pizza relies heavily on the right cheese to achieve its signature crispy, caramelized edges and rich, tangy flavor. Brick cheese, known for its high butterfat content and mild flavor, is the traditional and crucial element. The cheese melts beautifully, creating that perfect combination of crispy and gooey that defines a great Detroit pizza.
The Star Ingredient: Brick Cheese
Brick cheese, originating in Wisconsin, is the cornerstone of authentic Detroit pizza. Its name comes from the brick-shaped molds used during its production. What sets brick cheese apart is its melting properties and relatively high fat content. This fat content is what enables the cheese to caramelize beautifully as it spills over the edges of the pizza pan, creating the sought-after frico crust. Its mild flavor also provides a blank canvas that complements the robust tomato sauce and other toppings.
Why Not Mozzarella?
While mozzarella is a common pizza cheese, it doesn’t quite deliver the same results as brick cheese in Detroit-style pizza. Mozzarella tends to melt and stretch, rather than caramelize. Although some pizzerias might use a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese, the unique characteristics of brick cheese are essential for that distinct Detroit taste and texture. According to Wikipedia, brick cheese offers a unique semi-hard texture and butterfat content that is pivotal for Detroit-style pizza.
The Placement Matters
The way the cheese is placed on a Detroit pizza is as important as the cheese itself. Instead of simply scattering the cheese evenly, it’s typically placed in “strips” or “walls” that extend all the way to the edges of the pan. This deliberate placement ensures that the cheese melts down the sides, creating the crucial caramelized edge. The strategic cheese placement also helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Modern Variations
While brick cheese is the traditional choice, some modern Detroit-style pizza makers experiment with variations. This might include blending brick cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone to achieve a different flavor profile or texture. Some even use Wisconsin-style cheddar for a sharper, bolder flavor. However, most purists agree that brick cheese should always be the dominant cheese for a truly authentic Detroit pizza experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is frico crust?
Frico crust is the crispy, caramelized cheese that forms around the edges of a Detroit-style pizza. It’s created when the cheese melts down the sides of the pan and bakes directly against the hot surface.
Can I use another cheese if I can’t find brick cheese?
While brick cheese is ideal, you can try using a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack or provolone as a substitute, but it won’t replicate the exact flavor or texture.
Why does Detroit pizza use a rectangular pan?
Detroit-style pizza is traditionally baked in rectangular steel pans, often repurposed automotive parts trays, which contribute to its deep-dish shape and crispy edges.
Is Detroit pizza cheese vegetarian?
Most brick cheese is vegetarian-friendly, but it’s always best to check the specific brand to ensure it uses microbial rennet rather than animal rennet.
What kind of sauce is used on Detroit pizza?
Detroit-style pizza typically features a chunky tomato sauce, often ladled on top of the baked cheese after it comes out of the oven.
Summary
The unique cheese used in Detroit-style pizza, primarily brick cheese, is vital to its distinctive character. Its high butterfat content, mild flavor, and strategic placement in the pan all contribute to the crispy, caramelized edges and overall deliciousness that define this iconic pizza style. While variations exist, brick cheese remains the heart and soul of an authentic Detroit pizza experience.
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