Real Italian Calzones

Introduction

Real Italian Calzones are delicious folded pizzas filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. Originating from Naples, calzones offer a delightful combination of crispy crust and savory fillings, typically featuring cheese, meats, and vegetables. Easy to customize and fun to eat, calzones are great for sharing or enjoying as a satisfying personal meal.

What Is a Calzone?

A calzone is a traditional Italian dish similar to a pizza but folded over to create a pocket of goodness. The outer crust is baked until golden brown, while the inside is filled with a variety of ingredients, making it a portable and flavorful option. Calzones can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and they’re perfect for parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Real Italian Calzones, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni (optional)
• 1 cup spinach or other vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the Dough: Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix together the mozzarella, ricotta, cooked sausage or pepperoni, spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Calzones

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
3. Add Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
4. Fold and Seal: Fold the other half over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for extra security.
5. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the calzones for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Calzones

1. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Calzones

• Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, meats, and vegetables based on your taste preferences.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the calzones, as they may burst during baking.
• Serve with Sauce: Serve your calzones with marinara sauce for dipping for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Real Italian Calzones are a delightful dish that combines the best of pizza with the convenience of a hand-held meal. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these delicious pockets of flavor are sure to impress your family and friends. Making calzones at home is not only fun but also allows for endless customization, making them a favorite for everyone!