In the heart of Detroit, Michigan, a culinary masterpiece was born in the 1940s, forever changing the landscape of American pizza. Detroit-style pizza, with its distinctive square shape and crispy, cheesy crust, has roots deeply embedded in the city's rich industrial past. Imagine, if you will, a Greek-American soldier named Gus Guerra returning home after World War II, bringing with him an innovative idea that would put Detroit on the culinary map. Utilizing blue steel pans, originally intended for automotive parts, Guerra crafted a pizza that was both a nod to tradition and a bold new take on a beloved dish. This style of pizza, characterized by its thick, chewy crust and reverse layering of cheese and sauce, quickly became a local favorite. As word spread, Detroit-style pizza began to captivate taste buds far beyond the city limits, evolving into a global phenomenon. Yet, despite its widespread popularity, the origins of this iconic dish remain shrouded in mystery and lore, making it not just a meal, but a slice of history.
Key Takeaway
Timeline
Day Activities
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Kick-off with a Pizza-Making Workshop: Start National Detroit-Style Pizza Day by rolling up your sleeves for a hands-on pizza-making workshop. Local pizzerias often host these events, teaching the art of crafting the perfect square pizza. From kneading the dough to layering on the cheese and toppings just right, participants get a slice of the action, ending with the satisfaction of devouring their own creations.
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Pizza Tasting Tours: What better way to celebrate than by embarking on a pizza tasting tour around town? Many cities, not just Detroit, join in the festivities, offering tours that stop at various eateries specializing in Detroit-style pizza. It's a fantastic opportunity to compare and contrast different takes on this Motor City classic, all while mingling with fellow pizza aficionados.
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Pizza History and Trivia Night: Cap off the day with a slice of history at a local bar or community center hosting a pizza-themed trivia night. Dive deep into the origins of Detroit-style pizza, its connection to the city's industrial past, and the legendary blue steel pans. It's a fun, engaging way to test your knowledge, win prizes, and maybe learn a thing or two about this beloved dish.
Why We Love This Day
- Celebrating Detroit's Culinary Heritage
Who doesn't love a good slice of pizza, especially when it's got a story as rich as Detroit-style? June 23 is more than just another day; it's a tribute to a city's culinary innovation and its ties to the industrial past. Imagine biting into that thick, crispy crust, knowing you're partaking in a tradition that's been around since the 1940s. It's like a time machine, but tastier. This day is a nod to the creativity and resilience of Detroit, showing how a simple idea can turn into a worldwide sensation. So, let's raise a slice to Detroit's ingenuity and the mouthwatering pizza that's become a symbol of the city's spirit.
- Unique Cooking Method
Now, here's where things get interesting. Those blue steel pans, originally meant for automotive parts, turned out to be the secret ingredient for creating the perfect pizza crust. It's not every day you hear about industrial tools being repurposed for cooking, right? Celebrating this day means acknowledging a slice of ingenuity—literally. The crispy edges, the chewy center, and that delightful caramelization can only come from this unique cooking method. It's a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best discoveries happen by accident. So, why not dive into a piece that's as much about history as it is about flavor?
- A Day for Pizza Lovers Everywhere
Sure, pizza is a global favorite, but Detroit-style has carved out its own special place in the hearts of pie aficionados. On June 23, it doesn't matter where you're from; this day unites everyone under the banner of cheesy, crusty goodness. It's an excuse (not that we need one) to indulge in one of the finest contributions to the pizza world. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, there's no better time to explore the layers of flavor that make Detroit-style pizza a standout. Plus, it's a chance to support local pizzerias and spread the love for a style that deserves all the attention it can get.
Past & Future Dates
| Month | Day | Year |
|---|---|---|
| JUNE | 23 | 2022 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2023 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2024 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2025 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2026 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2027 |
| JUNE | 23 | 2028 |
FAQ
What state is known for Detroit-style pizza?
We've found that if there's one food Michiganders know and love, it's pizza! While amazing pizza can be found all across the state, some may argue that “Detroit-style” pies top the charts.
Why is it called Detroit-style pizza?
Baked in forged-steel pans borrowed from local automotive plants, they were able to produce a very light and crispy crust which is now known as Detroit-Style Pizza.
What is the national pizza day in the US?
National Pizza Day on February 9th celebrates one of America's all-time favorite foods.
What comes on a Detroit-style pizza?
Detroit-style pizza is a deep-dish rectangular pizza topped with Wisconsin brick cheese and a cooked tomato-based sauce. The dough typically has a hydration level of 70 percent or higher, which creates an open, porous, chewy crust with a crisp exterior.