detroit motor city pizza instructions

Detroit Motor City Pizza Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Detroit-style pizza, known for its square shape, crispy cheese edges, and light, airy crust, requires specific instructions to achieve its signature characteristics. Mastering the technique, from dough preparation to baking, unlocks the authentic Motor City experience.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to recreate this culinary icon at home, ensuring a delicious and satisfying pizza every time.

Preparing the Dough

The dough is the foundation of Detroit-style pizza. It’s a high-hydration dough, meaning it contains a significant amount of water, which contributes to its open crumb and airy texture.

Ingredients: Typically include high-protein bread flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil.

Instructions: Combine ingredients and knead until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. Allow the dough to rise in a lightly oiled bowl for several hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This long fermentation process develops flavor and improves texture. Before using the dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 2 hours.

Assembling the Pizza

The assembly process is crucial for achieving the characteristic crispy edges.

The Pan: Use a dark, heavy steel pan, typically 8×10 or 9×13 inches. This helps create the crispy, almost fried, edges.

Oiling the Pan: Generously coat the pan with olive oil. This is essential for the crispy crust.

Stretching the Dough: Gently stretch and press the dough into the oiled pan, making sure it reaches all the corners. You can press the dough with your fingertips to ensure even distribution.

Toppings: Layer the toppings in a specific order: cheese, then toppings, then sauce. This is different from traditional pizza, where the sauce usually goes first.

Cheese: Use Wisconsin brick cheese, if possible. It melts beautifully and contributes to the signature Detroit-style flavor. If brick cheese isn’t available, a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can be used.

Toppings: Add your desired toppings. Pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms are popular choices.

Sauce: Dollop the sauce on top of the cheese and toppings in thick stripes, often after baking. Use a flavorful tomato sauce with a touch of sweetness.

Baking the Pizza

Baking time and temperature are crucial for achieving the perfect crust and melted cheese.

Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 450-500°F (232-260°C).

Baking Time: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly with slightly browned edges. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Finishing Touches: After baking, let the pizza rest in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

For more information about the origins and characteristics of Detroit-style pizza, refer to this Wikipedia article about Detroit-style pizza.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Detroit-style pizza square?

Detroit-style pizza’s square shape originates from the blue steel pans used in automotive factories, where the pizza was initially baked.

What makes Detroit-style pizza different?

The distinct characteristics of Detroit-style pizza include a thick, airy crust with crispy, cheesy edges, a square shape, and a unique topping order (cheese first, then toppings, then sauce).

Can I use a regular baking pan?

While you can use a regular baking pan, a dark, heavy steel pan is recommended for achieving the crispy edges that are characteristic of Detroit-style pizza.

What kind of cheese is best for Detroit-style pizza?

Wisconsin brick cheese is traditionally used, but a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can be a suitable substitute.

Do I have to use a specific type of flour?

High-protein bread flour is preferred for its gluten content, which contributes to the airy texture of the crust. However, all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute, although the texture may be slightly different.

Summary

Creating authentic Detroit-style pizza at home involves careful attention to detail, from dough preparation to baking. By following these instructions, including using the right pan, cheese, and baking techniques, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying taste of Motor City pizza in your own kitchen.