The Secret Midwestern Pizza That Took Austin By Storm
Austin, Texas – a city renowned for its vibrant live music scene, burgeoning tech industry, and, of course, its legendary breakfast tacos – has a new culinary darling that’s been quietly conquering palates: Detroit pizza. This deep-dish delight, characterized by its crispy, cheesy edges and airy, focaccia-like crust, has found an unexpected but fervent following in the heart of Texas. It’s a testament to how true culinary innovation can transcend regional boundaries, proving that the humble pizza can still surprise and delight.
What Exactly is Detroit Pizza?
Before diving into its Austin conquest, it’s essential to understand what sets Detroit pizza apart. Unlike its Neapolitan or New York counterparts, this style originates from the industrial heartland, and its form reflects its heritage. It’s traditionally baked in rectangular, blue steel pans, originally used for automotive parts, giving it a unique shape and texture. The cheese is typically spread all the way to the edges, caramelizing against the pan to create those sought-after crispy, cheesy crusts.
The Unique Crust and Cheese Factor
The crust of a Detroit pizza is its unsung hero. It’s thick but incredibly light and airy, with a chew that’s utterly satisfying. This is achieved through a high-hydration dough, often proofed for an extended period, which contributes to its focaccia-like crumb. The real magic, however, happens with the cheese. Generous amounts of brick cheese, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, are spread to the very edges of the pan.
As the pizza bakes, the cheese melts and then crisps up against the hot steel, creating a halo of golden-brown, caramelized goodness around the perimeter. This “cheese crust” is the signature element that has foodies raving and has solidified Detroit pizza’s reputation as a truly distinct style. The sauce, often a zesty, uncooked tomato sauce, is typically ladled on top of the cheese in thick stripes, adding a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy interior.
The Rise of Detroit Pizza in the Lone Star State
Austin’s diverse culinary landscape is always open to exciting new flavors, and the arrival of authentic Detroit pizza has been met with enthusiasm. Initially a niche offering, it has rapidly gained traction, moving from hidden gems to more mainstream recognition. This shift is driven by several factors, including the inherent deliciousness of the pizza itself and a growing consumer appetite for unique, high-quality comfort food.
From Local Secret to Culinary Trend
The journey of Detroit pizza in Austin mirrors its national resurgence. It started with a few passionate entrepreneurs who recognized the potential of this distinct pizza style. They focused on authenticity, sourcing the right ingredients and mastering the techniques required to produce a true Detroit-style pie. Word-of-mouth, fueled by social media and dedicated food bloggers, began to spread the gospel of this cheesy, crispy delight.
This initial buzz created demand, encouraging more pizzerias to experiment with the Detroit style or dedicate themselves entirely to it. What was once a novelty is now a recognized category, with menus featuring distinct sections for their Detroit offerings. This isn’t just about a new pizza shape; it’s about a specific flavor profile and texture that resonates with a broad audience looking for something beyond the conventional.
What Austin Foodies Love About It
Austin’s food scene is characterized by its appreciation for quality ingredients, bold flavors, and unpretentious dining experiences. Detroit pizza hits all these marks. The crispy, caramelized cheese edges offer a textural contrast that’s incredibly addictive. The thick, airy crust provides a satisfying chew, making each bite a substantial and comforting experience.
Furthermore, the hearty nature of Detroit pizza makes it perfect for sharing, aligning with Austin’s communal dining culture. Whether it’s a casual get-together with friends or a family dinner, a Detroit-style pie is often the centerpiece. The rich, savory flavors, combined with the satisfying heft of the crust, offer a comforting indulgence that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Mastering the Art: The Key Ingredients and Techniques
Creating an exceptional Detroit pizza is more than just tossing toppings on a crust. It involves a meticulous process, from dough hydration to the specific types of cheese and the precise baking method. Understanding these elements is crucial to appreciating why this pizza has become so beloved.
The Dough is King
The foundation of any great pizza is its dough, and Detroit pizza is no exception. The dough used for this style is typically a high-hydration recipe, meaning it contains a significant amount of water relative to the flour. This high water content leads to a lighter, airier crumb structure once baked, giving the crust its characteristic chewiness and slight crispness.
It’s often a no-knead or low-knead dough, which relies on time and fermentation to develop flavor and gluten structure. A long, slow fermentation in the refrigerator allows complex flavors to develop. This patient approach is what gives the crust its depth and satisfying texture, making it a perfect vehicle for generous toppings.
The Cheese: A Crucial Layer
The choice of cheese is paramount in a true Detroit pizza. While mozzarella is a staple in most pizzas, Detroit-style often calls for brick cheese. This semi-hard, washed-rind cheese melts beautifully and has a distinct, slightly tangy flavor. It’s known for its excellent browning capabilities, which is essential for achieving those coveted crispy cheese edges.
Many pizzerias will use a blend, often combining brick cheese with mozzarella for optimal melt and stretch, and sometimes a touch of cheddar for added sharpness. The key is to use a cheese that can withstand high heat and caramelize without burning, creating that signature golden crust. The generous application of cheese, spread all the way to the pan’s edges, is non-negotiable for authentic Detroit pizza.
The Pan and the Bake
The iconic blue steel pan is the unsung hero of Detroit pizza. These heavy-duty pans, originally sourced from automotive supply companies, are essential for achieving the pizza’s signature crispy bottom and sides. The steel conducts heat efficiently, leading to a well-baked crust and allowing the cheese to caramelize beautifully against the pan.
The dough is pressed directly into the well-oiled pan, creating a base that’s thick enough to hold up to the toppings. The pizza is typically baked at a relatively high temperature for a specific amount of time, ensuring the crust is cooked through, the cheese is melted and browned, and the sauce is heated. The result is a robust, deeply flavorful pizza that stands out from other styles.
Beyond the Classic: Creative Topping Combinations
While the classic pepperoni Detroit pizza is a beloved standard, pizzerias in Austin and beyond have embraced creativity, offering a wide array of innovative toppings that complement the rich crust and cheesy base. These combinations showcase the versatility of the Detroit style and appeal to adventurous palates.
Popular and Innovative Toppings
Pepperoni remains a top choice, its slightly spicy, greasy nature perfectly rendering and crisping up against the cheese edges. However, you’ll find popular variations like the “auto-thentic” with multiple meats, or white pizzas featuring garlic, ricotta, and herbs. Some establishments are even pushing the boundaries with toppings like:
– Spicy soppressata and hot honey for a sweet and savory kick.
– Prosciutto and arugula added after baking for a fresh, peppery contrast.
– Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower for a heartier, healthier option.
– Creative combinations like buffalo chicken or BBQ pulled pork, reflecting local Texan flavors.
The beauty of Detroit pizza is its ability to handle robust toppings without becoming soggy. The thick crust and generous cheese layer provide a solid foundation for almost any flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Pie
To fully enhance the Detroit pizza experience, consider thoughtful beverage pairings. The richness of the cheese and the heartiness of the crust pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks.
– Craft Beer: A crisp lager or an IPA can cut through the richness of the cheese and complement the savory notes. Local Austin craft beers are an excellent choice to support the local scene.
– Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or a Zinfandel, can stand up to the robust flavors. For those who prefer white, a dry Riesling can offer a refreshing contrast.
– Non-Alcoholic: A classic Coca-Cola or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can provide a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
The Kubiti’s Take: Why Detroit Pizza Works in Austin
Austin’s food scene thrives on authenticity, innovation, and a commitment to quality. The success of Detroit pizza here is a perfect storm of these elements. It’s a style with a clear identity and a rich history, but it also offers a unique sensory experience that appeals to modern tastes. The emphasis on high-quality ingredients, the satisfying textural contrast of the crispy cheese and airy crust, and the comforting, shareable nature of the pie all contribute to its appeal.
The city’s embrace of this Midwestern import speaks volumes about its culinary open-mindedness and its appreciation for delicious food, regardless of origin. It’s a testament to how a well-executed dish, made with passion and care, can find a home and flourish anywhere. The growing popularity of Detroit pizza is not just a trend; it’s a culinary evolution that has found a welcoming home in the heart of Texas. If you haven’t yet experienced the cheesy, crispy magic of an authentic Detroit pizza, now is the perfect time to discover what all the fuss is about.
For those in Austin looking to experience this delightful Midwestern import, Kubiti Pizza is at the forefront of bringing authentic Detroit-style pizza to the Lone Star State. We’re passionate about crafting each pie with the finest ingredients and traditional techniques.
Visit us at:
123 Main Street, Austin, TX 78701
Call us: (512) 555-1234
Explore our menu: http://www.kubitipizza.com
Email us: info@kubitipizza.com