Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (2024)

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (2)

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (3)

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza?

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (4)

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ByErin Shaw/

If you find yourself at a bar or restaurant for happy hour you might find a flatbread on the menu. Flatbreads are perfect for sharing and snacking on when you're dining out, and chefs get to be creative with them. While it is often portioned and cut to share, a flatbread is actually different from a traditional pizza. According to Basta Pasta, flatbreads often offer a variety of creative sauces, cheeses, and toppings, and they all have that satisfying crunch. Since they are not restricted to traditional Italian sauces, cheeses, and toppings, chefs can get creative with flatbreads and try non-traditional pairings.

Making a flatbread is simple and easy, and if you don't want to make the dough from the scratch, it can be made from already baked unleavened bread types like pita bread, lavash bread, or tortillas. This Mexican tortilla flatbread is a perfect example of making a flatbread from baked unleavened bread and not from raw dough. However, a shining example is that the difference between a flatbread and a pizza has to do with the dough.

Ditch the yeast

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (5)

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While they seem similar, the key difference between pizzas and flatbreads is that pizza dough contains yeast and is allowed to rise for a time before the dish is baked, per Cooking Clarified. When made from dough, flatbreads use an unleavened dough and are often made in a free-form shape rather than tossed into a circular form like a pizza, per Basta Pasta.

Difference Between notes that the term "flatbread" is currently used to describe a newer invention that combines pizza-making techniques with unleavened flatbread ingredients in lieu of traditional leavened pizza dough. They also note that flatbreads are traditionally made from flour, water, and salt and are found in different food cultures around the world, like Indian food, Mexican food, and Mediterranean food.

Since flatbread pizzas are novel, they are not held to the same traditional standards as you'd expect with Italian pizza and therefore are more experimental. So if you're not in the mood for a traditional pizza, try getting creative with a flatbread instead.

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Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table (2024)

FAQs

Is There A Real Difference Between Flatbread And Pizza? - Tasting Table? ›

Pizza dough is made with yeast. It's what gives the dough its rise and accounts for some of its wonderful chewiness. Flatbreads are typically made with an unleavened dough, a dough without yeast or other leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda.

What is the difference between flatbread and pizza? ›

But the difference between the two really comes down to the ingredients, they both need flour, water, and salt, but pizza dough has an additional ingredient, yeast. Pizza dough is a leavened dough where flatbread is unleavened, giving it that flat texture.

Does flatbread taste like pizza? ›

It's in the Toppings

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.

Is flat bread healthier than pizza? ›

Flatbread pizza often has a thinner crust compared to traditional pizza. A thinner crust can result in a lower calorie and carbohydrate content, making it a potential choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.

What makes the modern pizza different than the flatbread made for thousands of years? ›

The difference between traditional and flatbread pizza is in the dough. Traditional pizzas are made from dough containing yeast, while flatbread pizza dough does not contain yeast.

What's the difference between flatbread and regular bread? ›

Naan is a flatbread, whereas bread comes in loaves. Naan is higher in fat, protein, and carbohydrates than loaf bread. The higher protein content of naan will allow you to feel fuller for longer and curve cravings.

What is the difference between pizza and bread? ›

However, the key difference lies in the type of flour used and the way it's prepared. Pizza dough is typically made with a lower protein flour, such as all-purpose flour or Italian 00 flour, which results in a thinner and softer crust. The dough is also usually left to rise for a shorter time compared to bread dough.

Why is flat bread healthy? ›

Other flatbread dough variations include a fat like olive oil or butter. Is flatbread healthy? Yes! It's one of the healthiest breads you can make because it's low in calories and fat but high in fiber.

Why is my flatbread pizza soggy? ›

The steam from the base can't escape, so it condenses on your crispy surface and turns it wet and soggy. Use a pizza stone or a pan with holes to get a crispy pizza crust. A pizza stone will keep your pizza hot and its porousness will absorb some condensation.

Is flatbread just a tortilla? ›

Tortillas are typically baked on a triple pass oven, while flatbreads are usually baked in a tunnel oven. Flatbreads may also require a proofing or resting period that varies based on the specific flatbread being made.

What is the most unhealthy type of bread? ›

The highly processed flour and additives in white, packaged bread can make it unhealthful. Consuming too much white bread can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

What is the healthiest bread option? ›

Here are our top 7 choices for wholesome, nutrient-dense breads.
  1. Sprouted whole grain. Sprouted bread is made from whole grains that have started to sprout from exposure to heat and moisture. ...
  2. Sourdough. ...
  3. 100% whole wheat. ...
  4. Oat bread. ...
  5. Flax bread. ...
  6. 100% sprouted rye bread. ...
  7. Healthy gluten-free bread.

Which is healthier pita or flatbread? ›

Side-by-side, bread contains a little more fiber and slightly fewer carbs than a pita, making it a somewhat more nutritious option. Pitas are lower in sodium than bread, so that it may be the best option for those eating a low-salt diet.

What is the key difference between pizza and flatbread? ›

In general, pizza crusts have a chew to them. Even the thinnest, most cracker-like crust of a St. Louis-style pizza still has a chew to it. Conversely, most flatbreads are crispy and without a chew.

Was pizza made for poor mans food? ›

Originally, considered a poor man's food in 16th century Naples, the pizza started with humble beginnings. With square shaped flatbreads, topped with nothing more than garlic, lard, and salt. Fast forward to the 21st century, pizza is a source of pride for Italians, not to mention enjoyed by the whole world!

What did Italians put on pizza before tomatoes? ›

The ancient Romans wouldn't have recognized the pizza we enjoy today (not least because the tomato wasn't introduced to Europe until the early 16th century). But they did produce flatbread topped with cheese, honey, fruits like dates and figs, nuts, or vegetables.

What makes a flatbread a flatbread? ›

A flatbread is bread made usually with flour; water, milk, yogurt, or other liquid; and salt, and then thoroughly rolled into flattened dough. Many flatbreads are unleavened, although some are leavened, such as pita bread.

Are flat breads healthy? ›

Other flatbread dough variations include a fat like olive oil or butter. Is flatbread healthy? Yes! It's one of the healthiest breads you can make because it's low in calories and fat but high in fiber.

Is flatbread healthier than regular Subway? ›

Is Flatbread healthier at Subway? The Flatbread option at Subway is lower in calories and carbohydrates, but it also has about half the amount of protein. You're getting fewer carbs because there's less bread.

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