Love Neapolitan pizza fritta? You must try these dishes
What's the story
Neapolitan pizza fritta, or fried pizza, is a beloved street food from Naples. This dish features a dough stuffed with various fillings and fried to perfection. While the classic version is famous, there are other similar dishes across Italy that are equally delightful. Each region has its own take on this culinary treasure, offering unique flavors and ingredients. Exploring these variations can be a delicious journey through Italy's diverse food culture.
Dish 1
Calzone di cipolla: A savory delight
Calzone di cipolla is another Neapolitan specialty, which is prepared with onions as the main ingredient. This savory pie is stuffed with onions, tomatoes, and cheese, all enveloped in a soft dough. The onions lend a sweet and savory flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among locals. Usually served hot from street vendors or bakeries, calzone di cipolla makes for a perfect snack or light meal.
Dish 2
Pizza chiena: A festive treat
Pizza chiena is a festive dish from Campania region, often prepared during holidays and special occasions. It has layers of dough filled with cheese, salami, and sometimes even sweet ingredients like raisins or candied fruit. This hearty pie is baked instead of fried and makes for an indulgent treat that showcases the rich flavors of Italian charcuterie.
Dish 3
Panzerotti Pugliesi: Southern twist
Panzerotti pugliesi are deep-fried pockets from Puglia in southern Italy. Similar to calzones but smaller in size, these pastries are stuffed with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese before being fried to golden perfection. They make for an ideal street food snack, as they are easy to carry around while providing an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Dish 4
Arancini: Sicilian rice balls
Arancini are famous Sicilian rice balls, which are stuffed with various fillings, such as ragu or peas, and coated in breadcrumbs before being fried. These golden-brown delights are widely available across Italy, especially in Sicily, where they are a staple at local markets and festivals. Arancini provide an irresistible crunch followed by a burst of flavor, making them a favorite among tourists and locals alike.