If you’re a fan of Italian style comfort food, then you have definitely heard of stromboli vs calzones. They not only look similar, but are both delicious yet totally different dishes.
Many people think they are one and the same, but in truth there are quite a few differences that make each unique from their fillings to the type of dough used to wrap them up!
Let’s take a closer look at what truly sets stromboli apart from calzone and why some would argue that when it comes to choosing between two, stromboli is simply better! Let your inner chef come alive as we explore this age-old debate between two classic dishes stromboli vs calzone.
What Is Stromboli?
Stromboli is an Italian-American dish that was invented in 1950 at the Italian Market of South Philadelphia. It consists of pizza dough, cheese, and various meats rolled up into a log shape and then baked. This classic sandwich can be filled with whatever your heart desires!
What Is Calzone?
Calzone is a half-moon shaped pocket stuffed with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various other ingredients. The dough is typically thicker than pizza dough (although some recipes call for using the same pizza dough) and it’s folded over so that all the fillings are sealed inside before baking.
Stromboli vs Calzone Nutrition Facts
Stromboli Nutrition Facts:
Strombolis are typically made with pizza dough, cheese, tomato sauce, and vegetables. Depending on the toppings you choose, a stromboli can range in calories from around 300 to 500 calories per serving. They also contain around 5-10 grams of fat and 10-15 grams of protein per serving. Additionally, strombolis are usually high in sodium due to the cheese and other ingredients used in the dish.
Calzone Nutrition Facts:
Calzones are usually larger than Strombolis, so they tend to be higher in calories and fat. The average calzone contains around 400-600 calories per serving, as well as 12-20 grams of fat and 15-25 grams of protein. Calzones are also high in sodium, containing around 1000-2000 milligrams per serving.
To reduce the calories and fat content of a calzone, choose leaner toppings like grilled chicken or vegetables instead of pepperoni or sausage. Additionally, you can use whole wheat dough or reduced-fat cheese to make a healthier version of the dish.
Overall, both Stromboli and Calzones can be enjoyed as an occasional treat when prepared with lighter ingredients. Just be sure to watch your portion size and keep an eye on the nutrition facts before indulging!
The Differences Between Stromboli vs Calzones
One of the main differences between stromboli and calzones is their shape. Stromboli has a log-like shape while calzones are typically in the shape of half moons.
Another difference is the type of dough used to wrap each dish up. Stromboli typically uses pizza dough, while calzone recipes often call for thicker dough that resembles bread or pastry dough. This makes it easier to seal in all the fillings when folding the calzone shut before baking.
In terms of fillings, there are also distinct differences between stromboli vs calzone. While both dishes may contain cheese and meat, they can have completely different seasonings and other ingredients like vegetables or olives inside them depending on preference.
When it comes down to it, both stromboli and calzones are delicious dishes that bring the best of both worlds when it comes to Italian-style comfort food. While there are differences between them, they’re really two sides of the same coin—both scrumptious creations made with love! So next time you’re in the mood for something savory and cheesy, don’t forget about these classic Italian dishes: Stromboli vs Calzone.
Stromboli vs Calzone Ingredients:
Stromboli: Pizza dough, cheese, and various meats.
Calzone: Pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various other ingredients.
Both dishes can also contain vegetables or olives depending on preference.
Stromboli vs Calzone Preparation:
Stromboli is prepared by rolling pizza dough with the desired fillings into a log shape and then baking it in an oven.
Calzone is prepared by folding thicker dough over the desired fillings to seal them in before baking in an oven.
Stromboli vs Calzone Taste & Texture:
Stromboli has a crunchy crust with gooey melted cheese and flavorful meats inside.
Calzone has a thick and fluffy crust with melted cheese and flavorful fillings inside.
Stromboli vs Calzone Serving Suggestions:
Stromboli is best served warm and can be accompanied by a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Calzone is best served warm and can be accompanied by a side salad or soup.
Stromboli vs Calzone History:
Stromboli was invented in 1950 at the Italian Market of South Philadelphia.
Calzone is an ancient dish believed to have originated from Naples, Italy.
Both dishes are now enjoyed all over the world!
Stromboli vs Calzone Health Benefits:
Stromboli provides a good source of protein and can be a great vegetarian option with just cheese and vegetables as fillings.
Calzone is also packed with protein and can be filling due to it’s thicker dough. It’s a great way to get creative with your leftovers!
Stromboli vs Calzone Name Origins:
Both Stromboli and Calzones originate from Italy. The difference between the two lies in their name origins.
Stromboli originated in the small Italian island of Stromboli, located off the coast of Sicily. The dish is named after the volcano on the island that has been erupting since antiquity.
Calzones, on the other hand, are said to have originated in Naples and were traditionally called “calzone” (meaning “trouser leg”) because of their shape resembling a rolled-up trouser leg. Though calzones tend to be larger than strombolis, they are usually filled with similar ingredients like cheese, tomato sauce, and vegetables. There are many variations of calzones, including some filled with seafood or ham.
Both Strombolis and Calzones have become popular in the United States, where they are often served at Italian restaurants. They can be found frozen in most grocery stores as well. So if you’re looking to try one of these delicious Italian dishes, give both a try and determine which one is your favorite!
FAQs:
Does a calzone or a stromboli have sauce?
Calzones usually have sauce, whereas stromboli does not. The pizza dough used for a calzone is typically thicker than that of a stromboli, so it can better hold the sauce inside its half-moon shape when baking. Stromboli does not usually need sauce as it is already flavorful enough without it. However, some recipes may call for adding a small amount of sauce to the filling if desired. It’s really up to personal preference! Ultimately, both dishes are delicious and can be enjoyed with or without sauce.
Does a stromboli or calzone have cheese?
Both stromboli and calzones contain cheese. The type of cheese used may vary from recipe to recipe, but most commonly it is mozzarella or provolone. Some recipes may call for other types of cheeses such as cheddar, parmesan, or even ricotta. The amount of cheese also varies depending on personal preference and the ingredients used in the filling. Generally speaking, however, both dishes contain a good amount of cheese that melts beautifully when baked in the oven.
Can you make a vegan stromboli or calzone?
Yes, both stromboli and calzones can be made vegan! There are many delicious plant-based ingredients that can be used to make the filling for either dish. This could include vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, onions, tomatoes, spinach, kale and more. For a protein-packed option, there are also many meat alternatives such as vegan beef crumbles or tofu that can be used instead of traditional meats. To make the dough vegan-friendly you’ll want to use dairy-free milk and margarine or vegetable shortening in place of butter when making homemade dough.
Can you freeze stromboli or calzones?
Yes, both stromboli and calzones can be frozen after they have been cooked. Just allow the dish to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Can you make stromboli or calzone without cheese?
Yes, it is possible to make a stromboli or calzone without cheese. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are plenty of delicious vegan ingredients that can be used in place of the cheese such as sautéed vegetables, plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh, and various seasonings. You could also use nut cheeses if desired. For an even creamier texture you can add some coconut milk yogurt or vegan cream cheese to the filling before wrapping up the dough.
Can you make a sweet stromboli or calzone?
Yes, you can absolutely make sweet versions of both stromboli and calzones. For a classic dessert option, fill the dough with your favorite fruit jam or preserves and some vegan cream cheese or coconut yogurt for an extra layer of flavor. For something even more decadent, try stuffing it with dark chocolate chips, some vegan butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking.
Do stromboli have sauce in them?
No, traditional stromboli does not have sauce in it. The pizza dough used for a stromboli is typically thinner than that of a calzone, so it cannot hold sauce inside its log shape when baking. Stromboli can be enjoyed without the need for additional sauces as the filling itself already packs plenty of flavor. However, some recipes may call for adding a small amount of tomato sauce to the filling if desired. Again, it’s really up to personal preference! Ultimately, both dishes are delicious and can be enjoyed with or without sauce.
Is stromboli a type of calzone?
No, stromboli and calzones are two different dishes. A calzone is a stuffed pizza dough dish that gets folded over in half before baking. It typically contains tomato sauce, cheese and various other fillings such as meats and vegetables. Stromboli is also made with pizza dough but takes the form of an enclosed log shape filled with cheese and other desired ingredients. Both dishes can be enjoyed with or without sauce. Ultimately, it’s really up to personal preference! Both dishes are delicious and can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Conclusion
Stromboli vs calzone is really all about personal preference. Both dishes are great options when it comes to Italian-style comfort food and offer endless possibilities when it comes to variations and ingredients. Whether you go with the classic combination of melted cheese and savory fillings, or a sweet dessert version filled with jam and chocolate, these dishes are sure to please any crowd!
James Burney is the founder of Acadia House Provisions is a restaurant that with local & upscale dishes and high-quality kitchen supplies and food products. James was born and raised in Maine, and he has always been passionate about cooking. After working in a number of prestigious restaurants he started Acadiahouseprovisions.com with the goal develop into a comprehensive information site specializing in cooking and cuisine. His goal is to make it easy for people to cook delicious meals at home without spending a fortune.
