Is this flatbread? Or is it pizza?
Flatbreads are incredibly trendy menu items right now and they frequently showcase toppings that are also found on pizza, like mozzarella, tomatoes, prosciutto, or spinach. Many flatbreads also taste similar to pizza and are on the menu at pizza restaurants. Flatbreads and pizzas are also typically cooked in the same exact pizza ovens, whether they are elaborate brick ovens or basic pizza ovens. So how are flatbreads different from pizza?
It’s in the Dough
The main technical different between flatbread and pizza lies in the dough used. Flatbread calls for unleavened dough, or, dough that doesn’t use yeast. Pizza requires dough that has been made using yeast and allowed to rise for a certain amount of time. Even though there should be a difference in the dough used, many chain restaurants and even small local Italian restaurants use the same exact dough for flatbreads and pizzas.
It’s in the Toppings
Flatbreads tend to have more creative toppings, in addition to the more normal toppings that would be found on pizza. Chefs often feel like they can do more experimentation with flatbread because customers don’t expect the same narrow item they do when they order a pizza. Flatbreads sometimes use different sauces, from classic tomato, to alfredo, to balsamic glaze, to plain olive oil, to even barbecue sauce. Flatbreads frequently use more exotic varieties of cheese like goat’s cheese or blue cheese that wouldn’t typically be found on your pizza.
It’s in the Shape
Pizza is typically one of two shapes—round or rectangular. It’s usually sliced into square or pie-style slices depending on the shape. Flatbreads can come in any variety of shapes and cut in almost any manner. Flatbreads typically have a more rustic or unfinished rectangular or ovular shape. Many customers like flatbreads as a smaller sized appetizer before their entrees or as a replacement for a larger and cheesier pizza.
Enjoy Pizza at Basta Pasta
For over 12 years, Basta Pasta has been providing Marylanders with delicious Italian specials cooked from fresh, delicious, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a taste of classic Italian food with spectacular pasta dishes, unlimited salad and breadsticks, and sumptuous fine Italian wines. To make a reservation at our Timonium location, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 308-0838. To make a reservation at our Fallston location, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 692-5200. To find out more about our menu, follow us on Facebook and Twitter!