Italian Stromboli

Stromboli is a delicious Italian dish that is similar to a turnover, but with a twist. Filled with a variety of Italian cheeses and cold cuts or vegetables, this dish is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, Stromboli is sure to please.

The origin of the name "Stromboli" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be named after the island of Stromboli in the Aeolian Islands of Italy. The island is known for its active volcano, which has been erupting continuously for thousands of years. The rolling and bubbling of the volcano's lava is said to resemble the rolling and bubbling of the Stromboli turnover as it bakes in the oven.

The dough for Stromboli is made with warm water, sugar, active or instant dry yeast, all-purpose flour, salt, and vegetable oil. This dough is then rolled out into a large rectangle and topped with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and sliced Italian cold cuts or pepperoni. The dough is then rolled up and transferred to a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper. A beaten egg is brushed on top before baking.

The key to making a great Stromboli is to use high-quality ingredients and to take the time to roll out the dough properly. Once the dough is rolled out, be sure to spread the marinara sauce and toppings evenly, leaving about an inch of space around the edges. This will ensure that the Stromboli cooks evenly and has a nice golden color.

When it comes to the filling, the possibilities are endless. Feel free to use your favorite Italian cold cuts or vegetables. Some popular choices include salami, pepperoni, ham, prosciutto, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. You can also use a combination of meats and veggies to create a truly unique and delicious Stromboli.

Once the Stromboli is finished baking, it should be served hot, with extra marinara sauce if desired. It's perfect for a family dinner, a party, or even as a snack.

Another theory on the origin of the name "Stromboli" is that it was created by an Italian-American in the 1950s. According to this theory, Stromboli was created by a man named Nazzareno Romolo who owned a pizzeria in Philadelphia. He invented the dish as a way to use up leftover ingredients, and named it after the island of Stromboli because it reminded him of his childhood memories of the island.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought dough for Stromboli?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought dough for Stromboli, but it's also very easy to make the dough from scratch. Homemade dough will have a fresher taste, and you can also adjust the recipe to your liking.

Q: How long should I bake Stromboli?

A: The baking time for Stromboli will vary depending on the size of the turnover and the oven. In general, it should take around 20-25 minutes to bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The Stromboli should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Q: Can I freeze Stromboli?

A: Yes, you can freeze Stromboli. To do so, wrap the cooled Stromboli in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a plastic bag. It should be good for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, remove from the freezer and bake it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: What should I serve with Stromboli?

A: Stromboli is often served with a side of marinara sauce or a salad. Some people also like to serve it with a side of garlic bread or a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

Q: Can I make Stromboli with different fillings?

A: Yes, you can make Stromboli with different fillings. Feel free to use your favorite Italian cold cuts or vegetables. Some popular choices include salami, pepperoni, ham, prosciutto, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. You can also use a combination of meats and veggies to create a truly unique and delicious Stromboli.

Make it

Italian Stromboli Recipe

Ingredients

DOUGH:

• 3/4 cup warm water

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1½ teaspoons active or instant dry yeast

• 1¾ cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 tbs vegetable oil

FILLING:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

• 1/2 pound sliced Italian cold cuts or pepperoni

• 1-1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

TOPPING:

• 1 egg beaten

Instructions

In the bowl of a stand mixer whisk together water, sugar, and yeast. Add in flour and salt and with a dough hook mix on medium speed just until the dough comes together.

Transfer to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 400. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured countertop and roll it out into a large rectangle.

Spread your marinara sauce over the dough until about 1" away from the edges. Top with cheese, sliced cold cuts, and pepperoni.

Roll up and transfer to a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper. Brush with lightly beaten egg.

Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden. Serve hot with extra marinara sauce if desired.

Enjoy! Buen Provecho!