Pizza Strips

Rhode Island's famous pizza strips come from the local bakeries, not pizza parlors, contrary to what people may think when they hear the name. It is a dish consisting of a thick, doughy base, similar to a focaccia, slathered with fresh tomato sauce, often with a hint of fresh herbs such as rosemary or basil. There is no cheese in pizza strips, just a heavy, bright red tomato sauce, which is why the dish is sometimes called tomato bread. Pizza strips are baked in large baking trays, resulting in a thick crust. The dish is traditionally served at room temperature and is a common staple food at numerous kids' birthday parties and cookouts. The origin of pizza strips is a mystery, but some believe it is an Americanized version of cudduruni - a Sicilan-style focaccia topped with tomato sauce and herbs.