Stromboli is a type of Italian-American baked sandwich or turnover that originated in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania region. It consists of Italian-style bread or pizza dough that is rolled or folded around a filling, then baked until golden brown.
The origins of stromboli can be traced back to around 1950, when it was created by Italian immigrant Nazzareno Romano at his pizzeria in Essington, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. The dish was named after the 1950 film "Stromboli," starring Ingrid Bergman, at the suggestion of Romano's future son-in-law; the name also nods to the Italian volcanic island of the same name.
In its most common form, a stromboli is made by laying out a rectangular sheet of pizza or bread dough, then layering it with various Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and vegetables. Common fillings include pepperoni, salami, ham, provolone, mozzarella, mushrooms, peppers, and onions. The dough is then rolled up tightly and sealed, creating a cylindrical shape. The entire stromboli is then baked until the dough is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the fillings are heated through.
Stromboli is often served sliced into rounds, revealing the spiral pattern of the rolled dough and fillings inside. It can be enjoyed as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, and is a popular item at Italian-American restaurants, pizzerias, and delis. Stromboli is sometimes confused with the similar calzone, but the key difference is that a calzone is a half-moon shaped turnover, while a stromboli is a rolled and baked sandwich.
Beyond the classic Italian-American version, there are many regional and personal variations of stromboli. Some versions incorporate additional ingredients like spinach, broccoli rabe, or eggplant, while others feature more non-traditional fillings like chicken, barbecue pork, or even breakfast items like eggs and bacon. The dough can also be substituted with whole wheat, garlic, or herb-infused varieties.
Stromboli is a versatile and convenient dish that can be customized to individual tastes. It is a popular choice for parties, tailgating, and other gatherings due to its portability and ability to feed a crowd. Stromboli can also be frozen and reheated, making it a handy meal prep option. Whether enjoyed hot out of the oven or at room temperature, the combination of savory fillings wrapped in crispy, golden dough makes stromboli a beloved Italian-American specialty.