Worldwide Food Tour – Saudia Arabia

February 25, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

Dish of Tradition and Celebration

Chicken Mashkool (مشكول الدجاج) is a beloved Saudi Arabian rice dish, featuring spiced, tender chicken served over fragrant, golden rice. It is similar to Kabsa or Mandi, with its distinctive blend of warm spices, slow-cooked meat, and aromatic rice, making it a staple dish for family gatherings and festive occasions.

While Mashkool is sometimes used interchangeably with Kabsa or Mandi, its defining characteristic is the way the chicken and rice absorb the spices separately yet harmonize beautifully when served together.

The History: A Staple of Arabian Peninsula Cuisine

Saudi Arabian cuisine is deeply influenced by Bedouin traditions, where dishes were designed to be nourishing, flavorful, and easy to cook in large quantities. Mashkool, like Kabsa and Mandi, evolved from these traditions, incorporating locally available spices, grains, and meats.

It is commonly enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and celebrations, served family-style on large platters, emphasizing the hospitality and generosity that is central to Saudi Arabian culture.

What is Chicken Mashkool?

Chicken Mashkool is a one-pot rice and chicken dish, where the chicken is cooked separately with spices, then served over flavored, golden rice. The dish gets its distinctive warm, aromatic essence from Middle Eastern spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black lime (loomi).

Essential Ingredients of Chicken Mashkool:

For the Chicken:

Whole Chicken (or Chicken Pieces) – Bone-in for extra flavor.
Onions & Garlic – For depth and fragrance.
Tomatoes (Optional) – Some versions include tomatoes for richness.
Bay Leaves, Cardamom, Cloves, Cinnamon Stick – Key Arabian spices.
Black Lime (Loomi) – Adds a distinct citrusy depth.
Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasoning.

For the Rice:

Basmati Rice – Long-grain rice, preferred for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
Ghee or Butter – Adds richness to the rice.
Turmeric & Cumin – Give the rice its signature golden color and earthy taste.
Raisins & Almonds (Optional) – Often used for garnish.

Tasting Notes: Warm, Spiced, and Aromatic

The chicken is juicy, tender, and infused with deep spices.
The rice is golden, lightly spiced, and rich in flavor.
The black lime (loomi) provides a subtle citrusy tang, balancing the warm spices.
The dish is perfectly balanced—fragrant but not overpowering, hearty but not too heavy.

This dish is aromatic and flavorful yet comforting, making it a favorite across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region.

How Chicken Mashkool is Served

Traditional Serving Styles:

Family-Style on a Large Platter – Served in one big dish for communal eating.
With Yogurt or Salata Hara – A refreshing yogurt-based dip or spicy tomato salsa balances the dish.
With Nuts & Raisins Garnish – Toasted almonds, pine nuts, or golden raisins add extra texture.
With Flatbread (Khubz) – Sometimes enjoyed with flatbread to scoop up the rice.

Chicken Mashkool is often paired with dates or sweetened tea, a common practice in Saudi hospitality.

Why Chicken Mashkool is a Saudi Favorite

✔ Deep, Warm Flavors – A beautiful blend of spices and slow-cooked chicken.
✔ Easy to Prepare & Serve – A one-pot meal, perfect for large gatherings.
✔ Rooted in Tradition – A dish that reflects Saudi Arabian heritage and hospitality.
✔ Versatile – Can be made with lamb, beef, or even seafood.
✔ Balanced & Satisfying – Not too heavy, but rich enough for a fulfilling meal.

Whether enjoyed at a family dinner in Riyadh or a traditional feast in Jeddah, Chicken Mashkool is a true taste of Saudi Arabia.

Worldwide Food Tour – Germany

February 25, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

A Crispy, Chewy, and Golden-Brown Classic

The Bavarian Pretzel (Brezn) is one of Germany’s most famous baked goods, known for its deep brown, crispy crust, soft and chewy interior, and distinctive twisted shape. Often sprinkled with coarse salt and served with butter, mustard, or cheese dips, this iconic snack is a staple of Bavarian beer gardens, Oktoberfest celebrations, and bakeries across Germany.

More than just a snack, the Bavarian Pretzel is a symbol of Bavarian culture and hospitality, enjoyed alongside a stein of beer, traditional sausages, or as a quick breakfast treat.

The History: A Bavarian Tradition with Medieval Roots

The pretzel has a history dating back over 1,000 years, with origins linked to monasteries in Southern Germany and Austria. Legend has it that the distinctive pretzel shape represents arms crossed in prayer, making it a common symbol of good fortune and blessings.

In Bavaria, pretzels became a staple by the 12th century, when bakers perfected the lye-dipping technique that gives Bavarian pretzels their deep golden-brown crust and unique flavor. By the 19th century, Bavarian beer gardens popularized the pairing of freshly baked pretzels with beer, a combination that remains synonymous with Bavarian hospitality today.

What Makes a Bavarian Pretzel Unique?

Unlike soft American-style pretzels, Bavarian pretzels have a distinct texture and flavor:

Crispy, deep brown crust – Achieved by dipping the dough in lye (alkaline solution) before baking.
Soft, chewy interior – Slightly dense, with a hint of maltiness.
Mildly salty taste – Balanced with the sweet undertones of the dough.
Traditional pretzel shape – Thick arms, a thin twisted middle, and a wide rounded top.

Essential Ingredients of a Bavarian Pretzel:

Flour – Traditionally wheat flour for the perfect chew.
Water & Yeast – To create a light, airy dough.
Salt & Sugar – For flavor and balance.
Butter or Lard (Optional) – Some traditional recipes use a small amount of butter or lard for richness.
Lye Solution (Natronlauge) – The key to Bavarian pretzels’ signature crust and color.

Tasting Notes: Savory, Malty, and Irresistible

The crust is deeply golden-brown, crisp, and slightly glossy.
The inside is soft, chewy, and slightly malty, with just the right amount of saltiness.
The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft center makes every bite satisfying.

The slight bitterness from the lye wash balances the natural sweetness of the dough, making Bavarian pretzels incredibly addictive.

How Bavarian Pretzels are Served

Bavarian pretzels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or with classic pairings.

Traditional Serving Styles:

With Butter (Butterbrezn) – A classic Bavarian breakfast, where the pretzel is sliced and spread with soft butter.
With Weißwurst & Sweet Mustard – The traditional pairing of Bavarian white sausages and mild sweet mustard.
With Obatzda (Cheese Dip) – A rich, creamy cheese spread made with Camembert, butter, paprika, and onions.
With Beer (at a Biergarten or Oktoberfest) – The ultimate Bavarian beer snack.
With Radishes & Pickles – Often served as part of a Bavarian Brotzeit (snack platter).

Why Bavarian Pretzels are a German Classic

✔ Iconic Bavarian Snack – A must-try in every beer garden and bakery in Germany.
✔ Perfect Balance of Texture & Flavor – Crispy, chewy, salty, and slightly malty.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Can be enjoyed plain, buttered, or with traditional dips.
✔ Deeply Rooted in Tradition – A symbol of Bavarian hospitality for centuries.
✔ Pairs Perfectly with Beer – The best companion to a cold German lager.

From Munich’s Oktoberfest to home kitchens across the world, Bavarian pretzels remain one of Germany’s most beloved baked goods.

World Food Tour – Romania

February 25, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

A Traditional and Hearty Romanian Comfort Dish

Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a layered Romanian dish made with creamy mămăligă (polenta), brânză (cheese), and smântână (sour cream). This dish is a comforting and filling staple in Romanian cuisine, often enjoyed as a main course or a rich side dish. The name “în pături” translates to “in blankets”, referring to the layers of cheese wrapped between soft polenta.

Mămăligă is one of Romania’s most traditional foods, deeply rooted in peasant cuisine, and this version elevates it into a decadent, cheesy delight that is both rustic and satisfying.

The History: A Dish of Rural Romanian Origins

Mămăligă has been a staple in Romanian and Moldovan kitchens for centuries, dating back to the 16th century, when corn (maize) was introduced from the Americas. Originally, mămăligă was a humble peasant dish, replacing wheat-based bread for many rural families.

Over time, mămăligă evolved into a versatile dish, often combined with local cheeses and dairy products to create richer, more satisfying meals. Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a beloved variation that layers cheese between soft polenta, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.

This dish is commonly served in Romanian households, restaurants, and even at traditional countryside feasts, often enjoyed with a glass of fresh milk or sour cream on the side.

What is Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături?

This dish consists of layers of creamy, golden mămăligă (polenta), crumbled cheese, and thick sour cream, baked or assembled into a warm, cheesy casserole.

Essential Ingredients:

Cornmeal (Mălai): The base ingredient, cooked into a smooth, creamy polenta.
Brânză de Burduf or Feta Cheese: A salty, crumbly cheese used between the layers.
Smântână (Romanian Sour Cream): Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
Eggs (Optional): Sometimes whisked into the mămăligă for a softer texture.
Butter: For extra richness and a silky mouthfeel.

Some variations include layers of ham, bacon (slănină), or even fried eggs on top for extra indulgence.

Tasting Notes: Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting

Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is rich and satisfying, with a perfect balance of textures and flavors:

The mămăligă is smooth, buttery, and slightly sweet, providing a soft base.
The cheese is tangy and salty, cutting through the richness of the polenta.
The smântână adds a creamy, slightly sour contrast, enhancing every bite.
If bacon or eggs are added, they bring an extra layer of depth and texture.

This dish is both rustic and elegant, making it a favorite in traditional Romanian cuisine.

How Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is Served

This dish is traditionally served hot and fresh, often in a large baking dish or individual portions.

Traditional Serving Styles:

Plain, with a dollop of sour cream – The classic way to enjoy it.
With Fried Eggs & Bacon (Ciolan Afumat or Slănină) – A heartier, richer version.
With Pickles or Fresh Tomatoes – For a refreshing contrast.
With Garlic Sauce or Butter – To enhance the flavors even further.

Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is often paired with a glass of fresh milk, buttermilk, or even a dry white wine.

Why Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a Romanian Favorite

✔ Simple Yet Satisfying – Made with just a few ingredients, yet deeply flavorful.
✔ Rich in Tradition – A dish with centuries of history in Romanian households.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.
✔ Warm & Comforting – The perfect meal for cold winter nights.
✔ A Symbol of Romanian Hospitality – Often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

From cozy countryside kitchens to modern Romanian restaurants, Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături remains a beloved comfort dish, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.

Worldwide Food Tour – America

February 25, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

A Crispy, Melty, and Iconic Classic

Few dishes are as universally loved and comforting as the American grilled cheese sandwich. This simple yet irresistible combination of crispy, buttery bread and gooey, melted cheese is a staple in homes, diners, and lunch counters across the United States.

Whether served plain, with tomato soup, or loaded with extras like bacon and caramelized onions, grilled cheese is the ultimate American comfort food—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and deeply satisfying.

The History: A Sandwich with Humble Beginnings

The origins of grilled cheese date back to the 1920s, when sliced bread and processed cheese became widely available in the U.S. During the Great Depression, the sandwich became popular because it was affordable, filling, and easy to prepare.

By World War II, U.S. Navy cooks were serving open-faced cheese sandwiches to soldiers, which evolved into the closed, pan-fried version we know today. Over the decades, grilled cheese became a nostalgic American favorite, appearing in cafeterias, diners, and homes nationwide.

What Makes an American Grilled Cheese Special?

An authentic American grilled cheese is all about the perfect balance of crispy bread and gooey melted cheese.

Essential Ingredients of a Classic Grilled Cheese:

Bread: Classic choices include white bread, sourdough, or Texas toast.
Cheese: The most iconic choice is American cheese, but cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or Monterey Jack are also popular.
Butter or Mayo: Butter is traditional, but mayonnaise is sometimes used for an extra crispy exterior.

Optional Additions:

Bacon, Ham, or Turkey – For a heartier sandwich.
Tomatoes or Avocado – Adds freshness.
Caramelized Onions or Jalapeños – For extra flavor.
Mustard or Hot Sauce – A tangy kick.

Tasting Notes: Crispy, Buttery, and Ultra-Melty

A perfectly made grilled cheese sandwich is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside:

The bread is golden brown and crunchy, with a satisfying crisp when bitten into.
The cheese is perfectly melted, smooth, and stretchy, creating a rich, indulgent texture.
The butter (or mayo) adds a subtle richness, complementing the sharp or mild cheese.

Grilled cheese is a nostalgic bite of childhood for many Americans, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite.

How Grilled Cheese is Served

Classic Serving Styles:

With Tomato Soup – The ultimate pairing, perfect for dipping.
With Pickles or Chips – A crunchy contrast to the sandwich’s richness.
With a Side Salad – A fresh counterbalance to the cheesy goodness.
As a Gourmet Version – Using artisan bread, gourmet cheeses, and fancy add-ins.

Why Grilled Cheese is an American Favorite

✔ Crispy, Melty, and Buttery – The perfect balance of textures and flavors.
✔ Easy to Make – Just three ingredients for a classic version.
✔ Customizable – Can be simple or gourmet, depending on preferences.
✔ Rooted in American History – A Great Depression-era staple that remains beloved today.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for quick meals, late-night cravings, or cozy weekends.

From home kitchens to high-end restaurants, grilled cheese remains an American icon—a simple, timeless sandwich that brings joy with every bite.

Worldwide Food Tour – Zambia

February 25, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

A Crispy, Golden Treat from Zambian Cuisine

Sweet Potato Fritters are a beloved snack and street food in Zambia, made from grated or mashed sweet potatoes, lightly spiced, and deep-fried until golden brown. These fritters are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and naturally sweet, making them perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a dessert.

In Zambia, sweet potatoes are a widely available and nutritious staple, and these fritters are a delicious way to enjoy them, often served with tea, honey, or a sprinkle of sugar.

The History: A Dish Rooted in Zambian Traditions

Sweet potatoes have been grown in Zambia for centuries, providing an affordable and nutritious source of energy. Traditionally, they are boiled, roasted, or fried, but sweet potato fritters have become a popular way to enjoy them, especially in rural communities and local markets.

These fritters are similar to vitumbuwa (Zambian fried dough balls) but with a natural sweetness from the potatoes. They are commonly sold by street vendors and made at home for family gatherings, celebrations, or as an after-school snack for children.

What are Zambian Sweet Potato Fritters?

These fritters are deep-fried, crispy sweet potato bites, made by combining mashed or grated sweet potatoes with flour and eggs, then frying them until golden brown.

Essential Ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient, giving the fritters a naturally sweet flavor.
Flour: Helps bind the mixture together.
Eggs: Adds richness and structure.
Sugar (Optional): Enhances the natural sweetness.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg (Optional): Adds a warm, spiced flavor.
Baking Powder: Makes the fritters light and fluffy.
Oil: For deep-frying, creating a crispy exterior.

Some variations include grated coconut, vanilla extract, or mashed bananas for extra flavor.

Tasting Notes: Sweet, Crispy, and Comforting

Zambian sweet potato fritters are light, fluffy, and slightly crispy, with a naturally sweet and mildly spiced flavor.

The outside is golden brown and crunchy, giving way to a soft, tender interior.
The sweet potatoes provide a rich, natural sweetness, complemented by the warmth of cinnamon or nutmeg.
They can be eaten plain or drizzled with honey, sugar, or served with a side of tea.

These fritters are comforting, nostalgic, and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving.

How Sweet Potato Fritters are Served in Zambia

Traditional Serving Styles:

Plain, with a Dusting of Sugar – The classic way to enjoy them.
With Honey or Syrup – A sweeter version, perfect for breakfast.
With Tea or Coffee – A common pairing in Zambian homes.
With Fresh Fruits or Yogurt – A modern take for a healthier option.
As a Street Food Snack – Sold in markets and roadside stalls.

Why Sweet Potato Fritters are a Zambian Favorite

✔ Simple, Affordable, and Delicious – Uses basic, local ingredients.
✔ Naturally Sweet and Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and energy.
✔ Crispy and Fluffy – The perfect contrast of textures.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Can be plain, spiced, or even savory.
✔ A Traditional & Nostalgic Treat – A snack loved by families across generations.

From family kitchens to bustling markets, Zambian sweet potato fritters remain a beloved dish, bringing warmth and joy with every bite.

Goal Met: Make 50 Different Pizzas

February 19, 2025February 26, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

This will be a cakewalk, I said to myself, I make pizza all the time how hard can it be to make 50 different pizzas? Let me tell you dear readers – it was very hard. The first few were easy as I busted out crowd favorites like Neapolitan, Pepperoni, and even a meat lovers. It was about 10 pizzas in when I started to wonder if just coming up with new toppings was a good way to accomplish this.

I did some research into topping combos and came up with a few that looked interesting but as part of my research I started seeing more regional pizzas pop up and it got me interested in how pizza can change as it travels across the world or even across the state. So I did a deep dive and became a pizzaologist. Tracking pizza as it went through all its different iterative changes.

These regional pizzas were still dough, sauce, and cheese but the way they went about it changed and I used my handy research assistant (ChatGPT) to do a deep dive into how Pizza was introduced to these regions and what the history of the style was (you can find these in the individual pizza posts) and it was some fascinating stuff.

Now there are some that argue for one style of pizza as being ‘real pizza’ and I get it. For me it’s a two way tie between a classic NY/NJ slice and true Neapolitan pizza. I get the appeal of Chicago deep dish and the buttery crust of a real good pan pizza and to be honest, I love them all. I’m not an elitist in that way (No, don’t take my NY Pizza card!) but I always come back to the classics when I’m in the mood for a good pizza that scratches that itch.

It was an educational journey and introduced a few new pies into my rotation (such as Apizza or pizza fritte) and there were a few that were just not great such as the steamed pizza. It’s like.. A bao bun with sauce and cheese. The texture was just not what I want from a pizza. The flavor was alright, but man I like steam buns and pizza but not this unholy fusion.

I’m glad I did this and I feel like I can talk about regional / international pizzas with a much more informed opinion having made and tried a lot of them. The only drawback was I always felt like I needed to be making a new pizza even if I wanted a classic pie. Now that it’s over I expect classic margheritas are on tap for a few weeks to make things simple!

Worldwide Food Tour – England

February 18, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

A Dish Born from Frugality and Tradition

Few dishes in British cuisine are as cherished and steeped in tradition as Yorkshire pudding. Though humble in its ingredients, this golden, airy delight is an essential component of a traditional Sunday roast dinner in England. Originally devised as a way to make the most of a meager pantry, Yorkshire pudding has become a symbol of British culinary ingenuity, transforming simple batter into a crispy-yet-pillowy accompaniment.

Hailing from Yorkshire in northern England, this dish has been enjoyed for centuries, evolving from a frugal side dish to a nationally beloved comfort food. Whether served with roast beef and gravy, as part of a full meal, or even as a dessert with jam, Yorkshire pudding is a testament to the versatility of British cooking.

The History: A Clever Way to Stretch a Meal

Yorkshire pudding has its roots in the 18th century, when it was first recorded as “dripping pudding.” Before ovens had regulated temperatures, large joints of meat were roasted on spits over an open fire, with fat and juices dripping down into a pan placed below. Cooks in Yorkshire realized that if they poured a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk into that pan, it would puff up and become a satisfying, crispy, and slightly chewy dish—perfect for filling up hungry diners before the costly meat was served.

The earliest known recipe appeared in Hannah Glasse’s 1747 cookbook, “The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy,” where it was officially named Yorkshire Pudding. Over time, the dish became a staple across England, particularly as a companion to roast beef in a traditional Sunday roast.

The importance of Yorkshire pudding in British culture is so profound that in 2008, the Royal Society of Chemistry even declared that a proper Yorkshire pudding must rise at least four inches to be considered authentic!

What is Yorkshire Pudding?

Despite its name, Yorkshire pudding is not a dessert like an American pudding but rather a savory baked dish made from a thin, pancake-like batter. It is light and airy on the inside while crispy and golden on the outside.

A classic Yorkshire pudding is made from four key ingredients:

Flour – Provides structure and crispness
Eggs – Help create a light, fluffy texture
Milk – Adds richness and forms a smooth batter
Beef Drippings or Oil – Essential for achieving a crisp, golden exterior

The secret to a successful Yorkshire pudding lies in extremely hot fat and a very hot oven. The batter is poured into preheated, smoking-hot muffin tins or a roasting pan with beef drippings, causing an instant sizzle that helps create the classic dramatic rise and hollow center.

It can be made in individual portions (muffin-sized) or as a large, pan-baked pudding that is sliced and served.

Tasting Notes: A Delicate Balance of Crisp and Airy

A well-made Yorkshire pudding delivers a satisfying contrast in textures:

The exterior is crisp and golden-brown, with a delicate crunch that shatters slightly as you bite in.
The interior is soft, eggy, and airy, almost like a popover or a soufflé, but with a bit more chew.
The flavor is rich and slightly savory, enhanced by the depth of the beef drippings if used. However, it remains neutral enough to soak up gravy, meat juices, or even sweet toppings like jam when served in different contexts.

Yorkshire pudding is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, when its textures are at their peak.

How Yorkshire Pudding is Served

1. The Classic: With Roast Beef and Gravy

The most traditional way to enjoy Yorkshire pudding is alongside roast beef, gravy, and vegetables in a Sunday roast dinner. The pudding is perfect for sopping up the rich, meaty juices, adding both texture and flavor to the meal.

2. As a Starter (Old Tradition)

Historically, Yorkshire pudding was served before the main meal, drizzled with gravy. This was a way to fill diners up cheaply before the more expensive meat was served.

3. Toad in the Hole

Another British classic, Toad in the Hole, takes the Yorkshire pudding batter and bakes sausages inside it, creating a heartier, more substantial dish.

4. As a Dessert

In some parts of England, Yorkshire pudding is even served as a sweet dish, topped with golden syrup, jam, or even cream—a testament to its versatility.

Beyond Yorkshire: A Dish Loved Around the World

While Yorkshire pudding is most famous in England, similar dishes exist in various forms across the world. The American popover is nearly identical, and the Dutch baby pancake shares many similarities but leans more toward the sweet side.

Today, Yorkshire pudding is a staple in British households and pub menus, and its reputation continues to spread globally. Whether paired with a roast, sausages, or even something sweet, Yorkshire pudding remains a timeless, comforting delight that embodies the heart and soul of English cuisine.

St. Louis Style Pizza

February 18, 2025February 27, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

If you’ve never had St. Louis-style pizza, get ready for something totally unexpected. This Missouri-born creation defies every traditional pizza rule in the best way possible—starting with the fact that it’s cut into squares, not slices. That’s right, in St. Louis, pizza isn’t served in the familiar triangle shape but instead in a grid of bite-sized squares, thanks to what’s known as the “party cut” or “tavern cut.” But the unique slicing method is just the beginning of what sets this style apart.

First and foremost, the crust is unlike any other. Instead of a chewy, airy dough, St. Louis-style pizza has an ultra-thin, cracker-like crust that snaps rather than bends. There’s no yeast involved, which means the dough stays flat and crispy, giving each bite a satisfying crunch. This makes it one of the few pizzas that you definitely cannot fold—and honestly, you wouldn’t want to. The crisp texture is the backbone of the entire experience.

Then there’s the cheese—and this is where things get really St. Louis. Unlike most pizzas that use mozzarella, St. Louis-style pizza is topped with Provel cheese, a hyper-local blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. Provel is an acquired taste—it’s ultra-melty, creamy, and has a slight smoky, buttery flavor. While some people love its gooey texture, others find it almost too processed. But for St. Louisans, Provel is non-negotiable. You’ll even find it in toasted ravioli, another local specialty. If you order a St. Louis-style pizza outside of Missouri, chances are they’ll swap in mozzarella, but if you want the real deal, it’s gotta be Provel.

As for the sauce, St. Louis keeps things sweet and tangy. Unlike the bright, acidic sauces of Neapolitan or New York-style pizza, St. Louis pizza sauce often has a touch of sugar, creating a slight sweetness that balances the saltiness of the Provel cheese. It’s usually spread in a thin layer, so the sauce never overwhelms the crispy crust.

And finally, we have the toppings. Since the crust is thin and crispy, St. Louis-style pizza can handle a lot of toppings without getting soggy. Popular choices include Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers, though some places get more creative. One classic St. Louis topping combo is bacon and onion, a salty-sweet mix that plays well with the Provel.

While the “who invented St. Louis pizza?” debate continues, one name always comes up: Imo’s Pizza. Founded in 1964 by Ed and Margie Imo, this family-owned business turned the local style into a full-blown institution. Today, Imo’s is to St. Louis what Domino’s is to the rest of America—a citywide staple with dozens of locations serving up thin, crispy, Provel-smothered pies.

Outside of Missouri, St. Louis-style pizza remains a bit of a cult favorite. Some people can’t get enough of the crispy crust and melty Provel, while others struggle to embrace its unconventional approach. But love it or hate it, St. Louis-style pizza is one of the most distinct and proudly regional pizzas in the U.S. It’s not trying to be New York, Neapolitan, or Chicago deep-dish—it’s doing its own thing, unapologetically.

So, if you ever find yourself in St. Louis, forget the debate over whether Provel is real cheese, embrace the party cut, and dive into a crispy, cheesy, square-shaped bite of Missouri’s finest. Just don’t ask for a slice.

Goal Met: Create Family Cookbook

February 17, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

I love cooking. Most of my skills in this area were honed when I worked as a line cook in various restaurants but they started watching people in my family cook. My grandmother was your typical Italian Nonna, always at the stove making something delicious. My mom wasn’t what you’d call a great cook (she liked to overcook everything “just to be safe”) but she had a handful of go-to recipes that we all loved. There were other people who had signature dishes that they always brought out during the holidays.

Over time I started developing my own recipes and I was pretty haphazard about where I kept all my notes. Most of the ones I really liked made it into a small notebook that saw a lot of use (it’s currently held together at the binding my duct tape) but there were papers stuffed into folders, notes written into cookbooks with alternate ingredients / timings and in text files on my computer.

I decided to collect them all into one definitive source a ‘family cookbook’ that my kids could one day reference when they want to make the nostalgic meals that they remember from their childhood or have a recipe be passed down to another generation.

My recipes were easy – bit by bit I imported them into OneNote and formatted them into a logical cookbook format (ingredients, methodology, cook time, etc.). My family’s recipes were a bit harder as most of them were never written down. I narrowed them down to a few that I felt were important enough to include then dredged my memory to try to recall the ingredients and methods that were used. I had to get creative and try different approaches but I think I came as close as I possibly could. I did have a copy of my grandmother’s recipe notebook which contained all her baking recipes. The only issue there was it was written completely in Italian. Luckily I was learning Italian this year as well so it was a win-win translating the ingredients and instruction into English!

As I was developing these I took lots of pictures but there were some recipes where I either didn’t have a photo or the ones I did have weren’t very good. I absolutely was shameless in finding a stock photos that looked exactly like what I made only with better lighting. I wasn’t trying to publish this book so I didn’t concern myself with the ethics of that decision, I just know some of these stock photos were really good and representative of what I was putting out.

I tinkered with InDesign to see if I could make a standard cookbook but instead opted for a web service as their drag and drop methodology was much easier to work with and I could see in real time what the results would be.

All in all I was happy with how it turned out – going to wait until a sale comes around on the book publishing site before I get a physical copy – sometimes those coupons they send can be a real value!

Worldwide Food Tour – Senegal

January 10, 2025February 27, 2025Anthony Panariello Leave a comment

Maafe has its origins in the Manding (Mande) people, who historically inhabited present-day Senegal, Mali, and Guinea. It is believed to have been created centuries ago, when groundnuts (peanuts) were introduced to Africa through Portuguese traders in the 16th century.

Over time, peanuts became a staple crop in West Africa, leading to the development of rich, peanut-based stews like Maafe. The dish spread across the Sahel region, becoming a fundamental part of the cuisines of Mali, Gambia, Guinea, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast.

While Maafe is most closely associated with Senegal, it is widely popular across Francophone West Africa, with slight variations in ingredients and cooking techniques depending on the region.

What is Maafe?

At its core, Maafe is a peanut-based stew, thickened with tomatoes, spices, and vegetables, and often served with rice, couscous, or fufu. The dish’s rich, nutty flavor is balanced by the acidity of tomatoes, the savoriness of slow-cooked meat, and the earthy warmth of West African spices.

Essential Ingredients of Maafe:

Meat (or Protein): Typically chicken, beef, lamb, or even fish. Some vegetarian versions use tofu or chickpeas.
Peanut Butter (Groundnut Paste): The defining ingredient, giving the dish its signature creamy texture and nutty richness.
Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: Adds depth, acidity, and umami.
Onions & Garlic: Provide a strong aromatic base.
Vegetables: Often includes carrots, sweet potatoes, cabbage, okra, or potatoes for added heartiness.
Spices:
- Ginger & Bay Leaves – For warmth and fragrance.
- Chili Peppers or Scotch Bonnet – For a spicy kick (Maafe can be mild or fiery!).
- Cumin & Coriander – For subtle earthiness.
Stock or Water: Helps create the luscious, thick sauce.

Some regional versions add coconut milk for extra creaminess, while others incorporate mustard, tamarind, or fermented locust beans for a deeper umami flavor.

Tasting Notes: A Perfect Balance of Nutty, Savory, and Spicy

A bowl of Maafe is deeply satisfying and complex:

The peanut butter gives it a creamy, silky texture, coating every bite with rich, nutty flavor.
The tomatoes add a bright acidity, balancing the richness of the groundnuts.
The meat is fork-tender, infused with the slow-simmered spices and sauce.
The vegetables absorb the flavorful broth, adding natural sweetness and texture.
The spices and chili bring a gentle heat, making every bite warming and fragrant.

Maafe’s comforting richness makes it the perfect dish for both everyday meals and festive occasions.

How Maafe is Served

Maafe is traditionally enjoyed as a communal meal, served with a starchy base to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Common Accompaniments:

Steamed White Rice – The most common pairing, allowing the peanut sauce to shine.
Couscous – Popular in Senegal and Mali, giving a light, fluffy contrast to the thick stew.
Fufu (Pounded Yam or Cassava) – A traditional West African choice, perfect for scooping up the sauce.
Bread – Sometimes served with crusty baguette (a French colonial influence).

In Senegal, Maafe is often eaten family-style, with people gathered around a large communal bowl, scooping up the stew with rice or bread.

Beyond Senegal: Maafe’s Influence Across West Africa

While Maafe is most famous in Senegal, it has many variations across West Africa:

In Mali, it’s called Tigadegena and often includes more vegetables.
In Gambia and Guinea, it is spicier and sometimes made with fish instead of meat.
In Nigeria and Ghana, peanut stews are similar but use local spices and ingredients.

No matter the version, the rich, nutty, and deeply comforting essence of Maafe remains the same.

Why Maafe is One of Senegal’s Most Beloved Dishes

✔ Rich & Flavorful – A perfect harmony of peanuts, tomatoes, and spices.
✔ Comforting & Hearty – A warming, satisfying meal that fills you up.
✔ Versatile – Can be made with chicken, beef, lamb, fish, or even vegetarian.
✔ A Dish with History – A centuries-old recipe with deep cultural roots in West Africa.
✔ Perfect for Sharing – A communal dish that brings people together over good food.

Whether you’re enjoying it in Dakar, Bamako, or your own kitchen, Maafe is a taste of West African tradition in every spoonful.