What National Day Is November 12

Have you ever paused to consider the significance of specific dates on our calendar? Practically speaking, imagine waking up on a crisp November morning, knowing that the day holds a special place in the hearts of many. Some days are etched in our memories as personal milestones, while others resonate with national importance. But what national day is November 12?

November 12 is observed as National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day. This quirky and specific holiday celebrates the joy of enjoying a pizza loaded with a variety of toppings, but with one exception: those salty, often divisive little fish, anchovies. It's a day for pizza lovers to unite and enjoy their favorite customizable pie.

The Alluring World of Pizza: A Brief Background

Pizza, in its most basic form, is a flatbread typically topped with tomato sauce and cheese, then baked in an oven. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a global culinary phenomenon, with countless variations and regional styles. Still, the beauty of pizza lies in its versatility. From the thin-crust pizzas of Italy to the deep-dish creations of Chicago, pizza offers something for everyone.

Pizza's origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where flatbreads were common fare. Even so, the modern pizza we know and love today began to take shape in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. The ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans all enjoyed flatbreads topped with various ingredients like herbs and olive oil. Naples was a bustling waterfront city with a large working-class population, and these people needed inexpensive, quick food that could be eaten on the go. Early pizzas were simple, often topped with just garlic, oil, and perhaps some tomatoes.

The addition of tomatoes was a crucial development in pizza's history. Even so, tomatoes were brought to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century, but they were initially viewed with suspicion and even considered poisonous. Still, the resourceful Neapolitans embraced the tomato and began using it as a topping for their flatbreads. This innovation marked the birth of the pizza we recognize today.

One of the most iconic early pizzas was the Pizza Margherita, created in 1889 by Neapolitan pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy. The pizza was topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. The Pizza Margherita quickly became a symbol of Italian national pride and helped to popularize pizza throughout the country.

Pizza's journey from Italy to the rest of the world began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with Italian immigrants bringing their culinary traditions to new lands. Day to day, in the United States, pizza gained popularity in cities with large Italian-American populations, such as New York City, Chicago, and Philadelphia. The first pizzeria in the United States, Lombardi's, opened in New York City in 1905 and is still in operation today.

Diving Deep: The Essence and Evolution of Pizza

The evolution of pizza from a simple street food in Naples to a global culinary icon is a fascinating journey. Its adaptability and the willingness of different cultures to embrace and adapt it have been key to its success. Let's take a closer look at some of the critical aspects that have shaped pizza's identity.

At its core, pizza is about simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. But the dough, typically made from flour, water, yeast, and salt, forms the foundation. So the sauce, often a simple tomato-based concoction, adds a burst of flavor and moisture. And the cheese, usually mozzarella, provides a creamy, melty texture that binds everything together. These three elements—dough, sauce, and cheese—are the holy trinity of pizza.

Still, the real magic of pizza lies in the endless possibilities for toppings. From classic choices like pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions to more adventurous options like pineapple, artichoke hearts, and roasted vegetables, the toppings are where pizza lovers can truly express their creativity and personalize their pies. The debate over which toppings are acceptable (and which are not) is a constant source of amusement and friendly rivalry among pizza enthusiasts.

One of the most hotly debated toppings is, of course, anchovies. This divide is precisely what makes National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day so clever. Some people love their briny flavor and umami richness, while others find them overpowering and unpleasant. These small, salty fish are a polarizing ingredient. It acknowledges the existence of anchovy lovers while providing a day for those who prefer their pizza sans fish to celebrate their preference. Still holds up.

Different regions and cultures have developed their own unique pizza styles. In New York City, pizza is known for its thin, foldable crust and generous slices. In Chicago, deep-dish pizza reigns supreme, with its high-sided crust and layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings. In Detroit, pizza is baked in rectangular pans, resulting in a crispy, chewy crust with caramelized edges. And in California, pizza is often topped with fresh, local ingredients and inventive flavor combinations.

The way pizza is cooked also plays a significant role in its flavor and texture. Traditional wood-fired ovens impart a smoky flavor and create a crispy, blistered crust. Now, gas ovens offer more consistent temperatures and are commonly used in commercial pizzerias. And home cooks can achieve excellent results with standard kitchen ovens, especially when using pizza stones or baking steels to help retain heat and create a crispy crust.

Pizza Trends and Modern Twists

The world of pizza is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time. From gourmet toppings to alternative crusts, pizzaiolos are always pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be.

One notable trend is the rise of artisan and Neapolitan-style pizzas. These pizzas underline high-quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and simple flavor combinations. On the flip side, the dough is often made with tipo 00 flour, a finely milled Italian flour that produces a light, airy crust. The pizzas are typically cooked in wood-fired ovens at extremely high temperatures, resulting in a slightly charred and blistered crust with a soft, chewy interior.

Another trend is the growing popularity of gluten-free and alternative-crust pizzas. As more people become aware of gluten sensitivities and dietary restrictions, pizzerias are offering gluten-free crusts made from rice flour, tapioca starch, or other gluten-free flours. Other alternative crusts include cauliflower crust, almond flour crust, and even sweet potato crust.

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Vegan pizza is also on the rise, with more and more pizzerias offering plant-based cheese and toppings. Vegan mozzarella, made from ingredients like cashew nuts, soy, or coconut oil, is becoming increasingly popular, as are vegan pepperoni, sausage, and other meat substitutes. But it adds up.

In terms of toppings, there's a growing emphasis on using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Pizzerias are sourcing their produce from local farms and farmers' markets, and they're creating pizzas that reflect the flavors of the season. Think pizzas topped with fresh tomatoes and basil in the summer, butternut squash and sage in the fall, and asparagus and ramps in the spring.

The use of technology is also transforming the pizza industry. Plus, online ordering and delivery apps have made it easier than ever to get a pizza delivered to your doorstep. And some pizzerias are even experimenting with drone delivery and automated pizza-making robots.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pizza Experience (Anchovy-Free, of Course!)

To truly celebrate National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, here are some tips to elevate your pizza experience:

1. Start with Quality Ingredients: The foundation of any great pizza is high-quality ingredients. Use good-quality flour, fresh tomatoes, and real mozzarella cheese. Don't skimp on the toppings, either. Choose fresh, flavorful ingredients that complement each other.

2. Master the Dough: The dough is the heart and soul of pizza. Whether you make your own or buy it pre-made, make sure it's properly proofed and rested. If you're making your own dough, experiment with different types of flour and hydration levels to find a recipe that you love.

3. Perfect the Sauce: The sauce should be flavorful and well-seasoned, but not overpowering. A simple tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs is a classic choice. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as pesto, white garlic sauce, or even barbecue sauce.

4. Choose Your Toppings Wisely: This is where you can really get creative. Think about the flavors and textures that you enjoy, and choose toppings that complement each other. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations, but remember that less is often more. Avoid anchovies unless you're absolutely sure you want them!

5. Bake it Right: The key to a crispy, evenly cooked pizza is to bake it at the right temperature for the right amount of time. If you're using a standard kitchen oven, preheat it to the highest temperature possible (usually around 500°F or 260°C). Use a pizza stone or baking steel to help retain heat and create a crispy crust. If you have access to a wood-fired oven, that's even better!

6. Let it Rest: Once the pizza is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.

7. Pair it with the Perfect Drink: Pizza goes well with a variety of beverages. Beer is a classic choice, especially a crisp, refreshing lager or IPA. Wine is also a great option, especially a dry red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. And for non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water, iced tea, or even a glass of lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is November 12 National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day?

A: The exact origins of this quirky holiday are unclear, but it likely started as a fun way to celebrate the versatility of pizza while playfully acknowledging the divisive nature of anchovies as a topping.

Q: Are there other "National Pizza" days?

A: Yes, several days throughout the year celebrate pizza in various ways. To give you an idea, National Pizza Day is typically observed on February 9th.

Q: What are some popular pizza topping combinations (excluding anchovies)?

A: The possibilities are endless! Some classic combinations include pepperoni and mushroom, sausage and peppers, Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, and basil), and vegetarian (mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, and tomatoes).

Q: How can I make my homemade pizza healthier?

A: Use whole wheat flour for the crust, load up on vegetables, use low-fat cheese, and go easy on the high-fat toppings like pepperoni and sausage.

Q: What's the best way to reheat leftover pizza?

A: For a crispy crust, reheat pizza in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). You can also microwave it, but the crust may become soggy.

Conclusion

National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is a delightful reminder of the joy and creativity that pizza brings to our lives. It's a day to celebrate the endless possibilities of this beloved dish and to enjoy a slice (or two) with your favorite toppings, minus those salty little fish if that's your preference.

So, this November 12th, gather your friends and family, order a pizza (or make your own), and raise a slice to the glorious, customizable, and universally loved food that is pizza. What are you waiting for? Share your pizza creations on social media using the hashtag #NationalPizzaWithTheWorksExceptAnchoviesDay and spread the cheesy joy! Go and enjoy a delicious, anchovy-free pizza today!