Pizza Blog from pizzatherapy.com

Blaine Parker Reveals "Little Miss Margherita" & Secrets of Free the Pizza

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:51:00 +0000

Freeing the Dough: Blaine Parker on "Little Ms. Margherita" and the Secrets of Great Pizza

What happens when you stop overcomplicating dough and start focusing on the "soul" of the pizza? You get a conversation with Blaine Parker, the creative mind behind the hit book Free the Pizza.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you purchase through the links on this page, I will be compensated at no extra cost to you. Check out my handpicked favorites at Pizza Therapy & Everyday Wonders.

The "Zero to Pizza" Philosophy

Blaine joined me on Pizza Therapy to share why so many home pizza ovens end up gathering dust in the garage. His approach is simple: strip away the technical jargon and give beginners a clear roadmap. His book, Free the Pizza, is designed to get you from zero to a delicious pie without the stress of "micro-weight" measurements.

"I feel like Margherita has always been a misunderstood pizza... people don't really get why it matters." — Blaine Parker [00:12:06]

Coming Soon: "Little Ms. Margherita"

We also got an exclusive look at Blaine's upcoming documentary film, Little Ms. Margherita: A Misunderstood Pizza in a Misunderstood Place. The film explores the incredible Neapolitan pizza scene in the Mississippi Delta and features legends like Peter Reinhart and Scott Wiener.

🍕 Master the Art of Pizza at Home

From the Modernist Pizza encyclopedia to the professional-grade Lloyd Pans we discussed in the video, find everything you need in one place.

👉 Shop Pizza Therapy & Everyday Wonders on Amazon

Watch the Full Interview

Check out the full video below to see the dough dimpling in action and hear more about the upcoming documentary:

📺 Watch: Blaine Parker Reveals "Little Ms. Margherita" & Secrets of Free the Pizza

(Opens in a new tab on YouTube)

Watch: Blaine Parker Reveals "Little Ms. Margherita"

Remember: Whether you're using a 1950s Wedgewood stove or a high-end portable oven, the goal is the same—Pizza on Earth, Good Will to All!

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:31:00 +0000

From Private Eye to Pizza Pro: The Incredible Journey of Ed Barbeau

What does it take to go from protecting high-profile clients as a private investigator and bodyguard to being crowned a World Pizza Champion? For Ed Barbeau, the answer lies in discipline, passion, and a fearless willingness to "throw his hat in the ring."

Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you purchase through the links on my page, I will be compensated at no extra cost to you. Check out my handpicked favorites at Pizza Therapy & Everyday Wonders.

A Chance Meeting and a Whole Pizza

Every great friendship has a story, and this one started with a misunderstanding. At a pre-expo party hosted by Tony Gemignani, I unknowingly started helping myself to slices from a whole pizza sitting in front of Ed. Instead of being annoyed, Ed was incredibly gracious—a testament to the kind of person he is. That moment sparked a connection that led to this deep dive into his fascinating career.

"If you disrespect pizza, it's going to kick your ass." — Chris Bianco (as shared by Ed Barbeau)

The Road to the World Championship

Ed’s path wasn't linear. After years of traveling the world in the security industry, he finally pursued his dream in Bend, Oregon. His transition to Neapolitan wood-fired pizza was so successful that on his soft opening day, he ran through 350 dough balls and had to keep making more late into the night.

In 2021, Ed achieved the ultimate goal: winning the World Pizza Championship. Remarkably, he hadn't cooked a professional pizza in two years! He woke up in the middle of the night with a vision for a recipe featuring duck bacon, Hood River cherries, and a perfectly balanced wine reduction.

Life After the Oven

Now retired from the restaurant grind, Ed hasn't slowed down. He has traded the commercial wood-fired oven for a home kitchen where he focuses on the "science" of sourdough and focaccia. He treats his bread-making with the same precision he used in his investigative days—testing, timing, and refining until the crumb is just right.

Explore the Tools of the Trade

Want to make world-class pizza or sourdough at home? I’ve curated a list of my favorite kitchen essentials and "everyday wonders" to help you get started.

👉 Visit the Pizza Therapy & Everyday Wonders Amazon Storefront

Watch the Full Interview

Ready to hear the full story from the man himself? Watch our full conversation on YouTube below:

Watch: Ed Barbeau Talks Pizza Therapy

Ed’s story reminds us that pizza is more than just food; it’s a universal language that brings people together. Pizza on Earth, Good Will to All!

How I Disputed a YouTube Copyright Claim (And Won)

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 06:05:00 +0000

Pizza Therapy and Everyday Wonders: Shop here (Affiliate Link)

As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Shopping through these links helps me keep creating — thank you!

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🛠️ How to Dispute a Copyright Claim on YouTube

Open YouTube Studio
Go to studio.youtube.com and sign in.
Find the Claimed Video
In the left menu, click Content.
Look for the video with the Copyright claim label.
Click “See Details”
This opens the Copyright details panel.
You’ll see what part of the video was claimed and by whom.
Click “Dispute”
Choose: “I have a license or written permission from the rights holder to use this material.”
Provide License Info
In the dispute form, clearly explain:
• Where you got the license (e.g., Epidemic Sound, Artlist)
• License ID or proof of purchase
• Link to the license terms or your account dashboard
• Be concise and factual.
Submit the Dispute
Confirm you understand the risks of false claims.
Submit the form.
Wait for Review
The claimant has 30 days to respond.
• If they agree, the claim is released.
• If they reject it, you can appeal or remove the content.

Inside the Oven with Tony Cerimele, World Pizza Champion

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:50:00 +0000

Inside the Oven with Tony Cerimele, World Pizza Champion

When you meet Tony Cerimele, you’re not just meeting a pizza maker—you’re meeting a man whose life has been shaped by dough, fire, and family. Winner of Pizza Maker of the Year at the prestigious Pizza Expo, Tony’s journey began in the heart of Pennsylvania, where his Italian heritage was more than a backdrop—it was the recipe.

Raised in a family where food was love and pizza was tradition, Tony learned the craft not from textbooks or culinary schools, but from the hands of his parents and grandparents. Their kitchen was his classroom, and their stories—told over flour-dusted counters—became the foundation of his philosophy: great pizza starts with heart.

Over the years, Tony honed his skills, blending old-world techniques with modern innovation. His pies are known for their balance—crispy yet tender, bold yet comforting. But what truly sets him apart is his humility. Despite the accolades, Tony remains grounded, always eager to share what he’s learned and celebrate the pizza community that helped shape him.

In our interview, Tony opens up about the moment he won Pizza Maker of the Year, what it meant to represent his family’s legacy, and how he continues to push boundaries while staying true to his roots. Whether you’re a seasoned pizzaiolo or just someone who loves a good slice, Tony’s story is a reminder that pizza is more than food—it’s connection, culture, and craft.

🎥 Sponsored by Pizza Therapy, and Everyday Wonders

This post is brought to you by my Amazon shop, Pizza Therapy, and Everyday Wonders. Feel free to explore my curated recommendations—or purchase anything available on Amazon through my storefront.

FTC Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases made through my link. It doesn’t affect your price, and it helps support content like this. Thank you for your support!

🔔 Stay tuned for more interviews, pizza stories, and product picks that bring comfort, creativity, and joy to your kitchen.

Inside Boombozz: Tony Palombino on Pizza, Passion, and the Pizza Expo

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 07:12:00 +0000

In this episode, Tony Palombino shares his inspiring pizza journey—from humble beginnings to building the Boombozz Pizzeria brand into a celebrated success. He opens up about the early challenges, creative breakthroughs, and lessons learned along the way. Tony also dives into his experience at the International Pizza Expo and reflects on what it takes to thrive in the pizza business today. Whether you're a pizza lover or an aspiring entrepreneur, his story is packed with flavor and insight.

Discover more about Tony on this post.Tony Palombino Unpacks His Pizza Journey, Boombozz Origins & Expo Wisdom

If you’re looking for kitchen comfort, pizza joy, or just everyday wonders, swing by my Amazon Store: Pizza Therapy & Everyday Wonders. These are products I genuinely use and love. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my link, but it won’t cost you anything extra—and it helps me keep sharing what matters most. Thank you very much!

The Rise of Wisconsin’s Pizza Farms, Farm to Table on the Pizza Farm

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:31:00 +0000

On This Farm, We Had a Pizza: The Rise of Wisconsin’s Pizza Farms

🧀 On This Farm, We Had a Pizza: The Rise of Wisconsin’s Pizza Farms

By a twist of fate and a whole lot of cheese, Wisconsin may have just reinvented the way we think about pizza.

Forget the deep dish pride of Chicago or the thin crust swagger of New York. Out in the rolling fields of Wisconsin, a quieter, tastier revolution is happening — and it smells like wood-fired dough and fresh basil. Welcome to the world of pizza farms.

Yes, you read that right. Pizza. On a farm.

It might sound like a joke — “Do they grow pepperoni next to the tomatoes?” — but the truth is even better. These farms don’t just serve pizza. They grow it. From the wheat in the crust to the herbs on top, and even the cheese and sausage, many ingredients come straight from the land beneath your feet.

Take Grassways Organics in East Troy. On Friday and Saturday nights, the farm turns into a pizza haven, serving up to 400 pies at the height of summer. The meats and cheeses? Raised right there. The cows, chickens, and even a wandering peacock are part of the charm. Owners Megan and Chaz Self didn’t grow up farming, but now they’re living the dream — one slice at a time.

Then there’s Mapleton Barn in Oconomowoc, a century-old farm turned event space. They don’t raise their own ingredients, but they team up with Flour Girl & Flame, a Milwaukee pizza crew that brings a mobile oven and locally sourced toppings. Their pies are chewy, sweet, and finished with a drizzle of honey — a little magic in every bite.

But pizza farms aren’t just about food. They’re about connection. Heather Secrist of Suncrest Farm has been making pizza for nearly two decades. Her shirts say “Pizza Grows On Farms,” and she means it. When visitors ask for asparagus pizza in August, she sees it as a chance to teach them about seasonal eating. It’s farming with a side of education.

The idea isn’t new, but it’s catching on. Many credit A to Z Produce and Bakery in Stockholm, Wisconsin, as the original pizza farm. Owners Ted Fisher and Robbi Bannen built a brick oven to use up extra produce — and ended up creating a movement. After 25 years, they hung up their aprons, but their legacy lives on.

During the pandemic, pizza farms became lifelines. With restaurants closed, farms opened their fields and fired up their ovens. What started as a way to survive became a way to thrive.

Wisconsin’s pizza farms are more than a trend. They’re a tasty reminder that good food starts with good soil — and sometimes, a little mozzarella.

Source: Chicago Tribune article by Christopher Borrelli, July 1, 2024

🍕 Explore More from Pizza Therapy

Curious about the gear behind the brand? Check out the Pizza Therapy Store for unique apparel and merchandise that celebrates pizza culture.
Looking for kitchen tools, foodie finds, or gift ideas? Visit Albert Grande’s Amazon Influencer Page (Affiliate Link) for curated picks that bring comfort and flavor home.
Want to see everything in one place? Explore Albert Grande’s featured links or dive deeper at Albert Grande More.
Need a conversation starter or a gift for your favorite pizza lover? Browse the Pizza Therapy T-shirt collection (Affiliate Link) for designs that spark smiles.

As an Amazon Associate and Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. Every click helps support Pizza Therapy and keeps the stories coming.

Chris Bianco’s Pizza Wisdom in 30 Seconds”

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:03:00 +0000

Chris Bianco: The Soul of Artisan Pizza

When people talk about the best pizza in America, one name rises to the top: Chris Bianco.

Born in the Bronx and raised in Ossining, New York, Bianco’s journey began with humble roots and a deep love for food. As a child with asthma, he spent hours indoors watching his aunt cook—an experience that quietly shaped his future. By age 13, he was working in a local pizzeria, and by his twenties, he was crafting mozzarella in his apartment and selling it to restaurants.

In 1988, Bianco moved to Phoenix, Arizona, and started making pizzas in the back of a grocery store. That tiny corner became the birthplace of Pizzeria Bianco, now considered a landmark in the world of artisan pizza.

What sets Bianco apart isn’t just his technique—it’s his philosophy. He believes in honoring ingredients, building relationships with farmers and producers, and cooking with intention. His iconic Pizza Rosa, topped with pistachios, red onion, rosemary, and Parmesan, is a testament to how simplicity can be transcendent.

Over the years, Bianco expanded his culinary reach with Pane Bianco, Bar Bianco, Tratto, and his line of organic tomato products, Bianco DiNapoli. He’s earned multiple James Beard Awards and was featured in Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pizza, bringing his story to a global audience.

If you’re curious to dive deeper into Bianco’s world—his recipes, his philosophy, and the heart behind his craft—his book Bianco: Pizza, Pasta, and Other Food I Like is a beautiful place to start. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a window into the soul of a pizzaiolo who changed the game. You can find it on Amazon—a thoughtful addition to any kitchen or coffee table.

Whether you’re a home cook, a pizza lover, or just someone who appreciates food made with care, Chris Bianco’s story is one worth savoring.

🍕 Explore More from Pizza Therapy

Curious about the gear behind the brand? Check out the Pizza Therapy Store for unique apparel and merchandise that celebrates pizza culture.
Looking for kitchen tools, foodie finds, or gift ideas? Visit Albert Grande’s Amazon Influencer Page (Affiliate Link) for curated picks that bring comfort and flavor home.
Want to see everything in one place? Explore Albert Grande’s featured links or dive deeper at Albert Grande More.
Need a conversation starter or a gift for your favorite pizza lover? Browse the Pizza Therapy T-shirt collection (Affiliate Link) for designs that spark smiles.

As an Amazon Associate and Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. Every click helps support Pizza Therapy and keeps the stories coming.

Remembering Paul: Pizza, Memories & Love 🍕❤️

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 00:24:00 +0000

From the latest issue of Pizza News, I share the following.

A Sad day. I write this with a heavy heart. My pizza pal Paul passed away recently. His absence has left a void in my life, and I find it hard to believe that I won't be able to share another pizza with him. He lived a joyous life, so although I am sad, I was happy to know him.

Paul reached out to me many years ago. He had read Peter Reinhart’s American Pie: My Search for the Perfect Pizza."

In the book, Peter had mentioned that I lived in Hawaii. I review American Pie, My Search for the Perfect Pizza here: https://www.amazon.com/live/broadcast/eb6e1c30-6ca4-4ec3-93e4-9c57f1208b7e?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_cm_sw_al__094MS1XERGJSBA9VTMS7

If you decide to grab anything through my Amazon link, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way to support what I do while treating yourself to something great.)

Paul explained that the book had motivated him to want to make pizza. He explained he wanted my advice on building a wood-fired pizza oven. We discussed several options. He called later to say he had found a design he was interested in and had proceeded to make the pizza oven in his backyard.

His house was located on the North Shore of Oahu, about a block from the beach. This turned out to be a great pizza place. Once the oven was completed, he invited me to make pizza in his oven. You can see a picture on the back of the Pizza Therapy Pizza book. This marked the beginning of many pizza parties at his house. I remember the laughter, the smell of freshly baked pizza, and the joy on Paul's face as he watched his pizza oven bake pizza after pizza. He had created an incredible pizza station, featuring a dough-stretching station, followed by a selection of ingredients. There was joy and laughter as pizza makers (some for the first time) made pizza.

I was invited to a pizza-making memorial at his house recently. Again there were stories and laughter by the people Paul had touched and influenced over the years. And of course, we made pizza to honor his spirit.

RIP, Paul. Here, the oven you built, is a legacy to your spirit and love of people. I was honored to be part of your life. You touched so many on the North Shore, creating a community bonded by a shared passion for good food and good company. Our pizza parties were the stuff of legends. Thank you for your friendship and your pizza love. Our memories of pizza will live forever.

All I can say is that the lesson is this: we need to take care of each other. We are here for a short time, so let us make the most of it. Thanks for reading this. Here are all the back issues of Pizza News Please subscribe, if you wish.

Explore the Pizza Therapy T-Shirt Collection and grab your favorite slice-inspired design. Every shirt is a hug from the oven.

Click Here

pizza on earth,
Albert
Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy

P.S. Craving more pizza magic? Subscribe to the Pizza Therapy YouTube Channel and unlock recipes, reviews, and behind-the-scenes dough wisdom you didn’t know you needed.

Neapolitan Pizza at Bocconcino, Kaka"ako Honolulu Hawaii

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 03:28:00 +0000

Neapolitan Pizza is offered at Bocconcino on Friday and Saturday nights, 5-9 PM. It is located in Kaka'ako, Honolulu, Hawaii

Make a Pizza Fashion Statement Please visit the Pizza Therapy Dashery Store

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Check out more Pizza at Apizzapodcast

Daddy Jack Shares Pizza Making Tips, Dough Making Tips

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:56:00 +0000

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Daddy Jack Shares Pizza-Making Tips and Dough-Making Tips for Anyone Making Pizza. Daddy Jack was a Bluesman and a Cooking Legend. He sadly passed in 2021.

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My Dashery Store: T-shirts, apparel, mugs and more

“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.” Albert Grande Links: https://sleek.bio/pizzatherapy Albert Grande More: https://sleek.bio/albertgrande Subscribe to the Pizza Therapy YouTube Channel: Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Pizza T-shirts; (Affiliate Link)

Ethan Spiezer Deep Dive into Pizza with Solamente Pizza in Las Vegas

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:01:00 +0000

Ethan shares his entire pizza journey. He is a Special Education teacher who founded Solamente Pizza in Las Vegas. You can find Solamente at https://solamentepizza.com/ He also shouts out to the wonderful folks at Yukon Pizza. Find them at https://yukonpizza.com/

“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

Albert Grande Links: https://sleek.bio/pizzatherapy

Albert Grande More: https://sleek.bio/albertgrande

Subscribe to the Pizza Therapy YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/PizzaThe.... Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page

https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy

Pizza T-shirts;

Pizza T-shirts; https://www.teepublic.com/stores/pizz...

General T-shirts https://www.teepublic.com/?ref_id=2728 Check out The Pizza Therapy Pizza Book: https://amzn.to/2MIFC79

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Pepe's Pizza Making and Baking Pizza at Frank Pepe's Pizzeria Napoletana...

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:17:00 +0000

Pizza Making and Baking at Frank Pepe's!

Pizza Therapy Amazon Store (Affiliate Link)

Wear Your Therapy on Your Sleeve (or Chest)

Who doesn't love pizza? It's the ultimate comfort food - cheesy, carb-y, and always there when you need it most. But did you know that pizza can actually be therapeutic? Introducing PizzaTherapy, the brand that celebrates the healing power of everyone's favorite food.

When you wear a PizzaTherapy t-shirt, you're not just rocking a stylish look - you're also reaping some major benefits:

Instant Mood Boost: Studies show that the mere sight of pizza can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain, making you feel happier and more relaxed. Wearing a PizzaTherapy tee is like carrying around a portable mood booster.
Conversation Starter: Let's be real, pizza is the universal language of friends, family, and strangers alike. Wearing a PizzaTherapy shirt is an instant icebreaker, making it easier to connect with like-minded pizza enthusiasts wherever you go.
Fashion-Forward Comfort: PizzaTherapy tees are not only stylish, but also incredibly soft and comfortable. You'll look good and feel good, which is the ultimate fashion goal.
Treat Yo'self - Buying a PizzaTherapy shirt is the perfect excuse to treat yourself. You deserve it, and hey, you're investing in your mental health, right?

So what are you waiting for? Add a PizzaTherapy tee to your wardrobe and start wearing your therapy on your sleeve (or chest) today!

Some of the links may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission when you purchase through my link at no additional cost to you

Wood Fired University August 15-18,- 2025 Fire Within, Denver

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 20:16:00 +0000

Wood Fired University August 15-18,- 2025 Fire Within, Denver

Wood Fired University August 15 to 18, 2025 Denver from Fire Within

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:40:00 +0000

Are you ready to turn your passion for pizza into a thriving business? You need to attend Wood-Fired University. In three immersive days, you will dive into the essential skills and techniques needed to succeed in the wood-fired catering business. However, it's not just about mastering the art of pizza making.

You will also have the opportunity to network with fellow attendees, building valuable connections and relationships that can help you throughout your journey. In three days, you will learn vital preparation and cooking techniques while gaining insight into how to avoid common pitfalls new entrepreneurs face. The class will be taught by Chef Thomas Garnick, a World Class pizza Champion.

Go to:

https://firewithin.com/wood-fired-university/

The Pizza Chef Who Quit But Couldn't Stay Away at Zucchi Pizza, Honolulu

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 14 May 2025 06:02:00 +0000

A great pizza story about why you should never give up. This post was proofread by Grammarly

800 Neapolitan Pizzas with Matt of Brick Fire Tavern at Festa Italiana

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 07 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

800 Neapolitan Pizzas with Matt of Brick Fire Tavern, Honolulu, Hawaii

King Arthur Recipe of the Year: Big and Bubbly Focaccia

All About Pizza. Pizza on Earth, Good Will to All.

Pizza Expo March 25-27 2025 Las Vegas Convention Center

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:20:00 +0000

Pizza Expo March 25-27 2025 Las Vegas Convention Center. Its all things pizza. Pizza all the time!
Albert Grande Links: https://sleek.bio/pizzatherapy Subscribe to the Pizza Therapy YouTube Channel:
Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy (Affiliate Link) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.” Pizza T-shirts
No Cost: Check out Grammarly!

All About Pizza. Pizza on Earth, Good Will to All.

Henry The Monkey: A Hilarious And Unbelievable True Story From Lou

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 20:30:00 +0000

The Monkey Story from Louie.

Henry the Monkey: A Wild Encounter You Won’t Forget

Some stories are too strange to be fiction—and this one’s got flat tires, lemonade, and a monkey named Henry.

It all started when Louie and a friend stopped to help two women stranded with a flat tire. What began as a simple act of kindness quickly turned into an unforgettable detour. After fixing the tire, they were invited back to the women’s apartment for lemonade. Sounds innocent enough—until they met Henry.

Henry wasn’t your average houseguest. He was a monkey. And what followed was a series of wild, hilarious moments that Louie recounts in this short video. If you enjoy quirky true stories, unexpected animal encounters, or just need a good laugh, this one’s worth watching.

🎬 Watch the full story: Henry the Monkey’s Wildest Adventure

Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Pizza Therapy YouTube channel for comfort food, laughter, and unexpected tales from the road.

🍕 Explore More from Pizza Therapy

Curious about the gear behind the brand? Check out the Pizza Therapy Store for unique apparel and merchandise that celebrates pizza culture.
Looking for kitchen tools, foodie finds, or gift ideas? Visit Albert Grande’s Amazon Influencer Page (Affiliate Link) for curated picks that bring comfort and flavor home.
Want to see everything in one place? Explore Albert Grande’s featured links or dive deeper at Albert Grande More.
Need a conversation starter or a gift for your favorite pizza lover? Browse the Pizza Therapy T-shirt collection (Affiliate Link) for designs that spark smiles.

As an Amazon Associate and Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. Every click helps support Pizza Therapy and keeps the stories coming.

Vito, Stella's Pizza Pie Shares Secrets about the Wood Fired Pizza Busin...

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 21:10:00 +0000

Vito Romani explains how he started in the mobile wood-fired pizza business and gives priceless advice for anyone considering starting in the pizza business.
Check out the Fire Within https://firewithin.com/

Mastering Detroit-Style Pizza: Techniques and Secrets

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 19:56:00 +0000

Understanding Detroit-Style Pizza with Peter Reinhart

Detroit-style pizza has gained a significant following for its unique characteristics, including its rectangular shape, thick crust, and a generous layer of cheese that extends to the edges. This style originated in Detroit in the 1940s, where it was initially baked in industrial pans. The result is a crispy, caramelized crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, airy interior.

One of the most exciting aspects of making Detroit-style pizza is the opportunity to experiment with different techniques and ingredients. In this blog, we will delve into the signature techniques that define this pizza style, particularly focusing on the embedding cheese technique that adds a unique flavor profile.

The Embedded Cheese Technique

One of the standout techniques for creating a delicious Detroit-style pizza is the embedded cheese method. This technique involves incorporating cheese directly into the dough, providing a unique texture and flavor that enhances the overall pizza experience.

To execute this technique, you will need to follow these steps:

Prepare the Dough: Make your pizza dough using your preferred recipe. A high-hydration dough works best for this style.
Embed the Cheese: After preparing your dough, take half of your cheese (preferably a high-quality mozzarella) and sprinkle it evenly over the dough before it rises. This allows the cheese to meld with the dough as it ferments and rises.
Allow to Rise: Let the dough rise for several hours. During this time, the cheese will embed itself into the dough, creating pockets of gooey goodness that will be revealed once baked.
Top with Cheese: Before baking, add the remaining cheese to the pizza, ensuring a crispy, cheesy finish.

Recipe for Monte Cristo Pizza

One delightful variation of Detroit-style pizza is the Monte Cristo pizza. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Monte Cristo sandwich, featuring ham and cheese, with the rich, textured crust of Detroit-style pizza.

Here’s how to make it:

Prepare the Dough: Use the embedded cheese technique as described above.
Ingredients: Gather your toppings. For the Monte Cristo, you will need sliced ham, shredded cheese (preferably mozzarella), and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an authentic touch.
Assemble the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, spread the ham over the embedded cheese and top with additional cheese.
Bake: Preheat your oven to a high temperature (around 500°F). Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Finish: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Tinkering with Your Dough

One of the highlights of making pizza is the ability to tweak and refine your dough. During a recent seminar, pizza experts discussed various methods to enhance dough quality, a process affectionately termed “tinkering with your dough.” Here are some key insights:

Hydration Levels: Adjusting the water content in your dough can significantly impact its texture. Higher hydration levels tend to yield a lighter, airier crust.
Fermentation Time: Allowing the dough to ferment for longer periods can develop deeper flavors. Consider experimenting with overnight fermentation in the refrigerator.
Yeast Variations: Different types of yeast can yield varying results. Experiment with instant yeast versus active dry yeast to see which you prefer.

Pizza Quest: A Passion Project

The quest for the perfect pizza is never-ending, and it becomes a passion project for many enthusiasts. Peter Reinhart, a renowned pizza educator, emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in the art of pizza making. His project, Pizza Quest, provides a platform for sharing knowledge and connecting with fellow pizza lovers.

This community-driven initiative allows people to share their experiences, tips, and techniques, fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity. Whether you are a seasoned pizzaiolo or a newbie, there is always something new to learn in the world of pizza.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Pizza Journey

Making Detroit-style pizza is not just about following a recipe; it's about embracing the journey of experimentation and discovery. By incorporating techniques like the embedded cheese method and exploring variations like the Monte Cristo pizza, you can elevate your pizza game to new heights.

Remember, every pizza you make is an opportunity to learn and refine your skills. So grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and enjoy the delicious adventure that is pizza making!

“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Honolulu eats 1 #food #newyearscelebration #foodie

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:33:00 +0000

Discovering good food in Honolulu

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Discover the Smoothie Diet

Tony Piombo of Forno Piombo Ovens Talks Fire Within and Wood Fired Univer...

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 23:01:00 +0000

Tony Piombo of Forno Piombo ovens discusses his relationship with Fire Within https://firewithin.com and why he decided to partner with them. He has also attended Wood Fired University. Tony expresses how he researched and discovered Fire Within and why his ovens are exclusive to them.

Tony feel the most important factors are they are diligent, they have a high standard of quality control and they build the ovens quickly and on time. He also explains the importance of going to Wood Fired University. You can find Forno Piombo at https://fornopiombo.com/

Pizza Pouch: The Ultimate Takeout Solution For Pizza Restaurants!

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 09:49:00 +0000

The Pizza Pouch is an alternative to using a pizza box when you take home left over pizza. Find more about the pizza pouch here: https://pizzapouch.com/

Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy (Affiliate Link) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. pizza on earth!

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Having A Blast With Scott From @scottspizzatours On A Hawaiian Lunch Dat...

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 01:18:00 +0000

Having pizza with Scott of @scottspizzatours is always fun!

Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy (Affiliate Link) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. pizza on earth!

Spicy Secrets: Mike's Hot Honey Adventure With Mike And Paulie Gee At Pi...

noreply@blogger.com (pizzatherapy) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 19:17:00 +0000

Mike and Paulie Gee discuss Mike's Hot Honey in a rare interview recorded at Pizza Expo. Mike explains how he discovered Paulie Gee and started to work for him as a pizza apprentice. Mike brought a bottle of his Hot Honey and the rest is history. Interestingly Paulie Gee's famous Pizza the Hell Boy, was actually named something else. Changing the name, changed the entire story for both of them.

Albert Grande's Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/pizzatherapy (Affiliate Link) As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. pizza on earth!