Pepperoni rolls from West Virginia

Pepperoni rolls are comfort food in West Virginia

The West Virginia pepperoni rolls their history, guide, and celebration.

West Virginia's culinary landscape is steeped in rich and hearty traditions, mirroring the state's characteristically rugged topography. Nestled within this heartening tapestry of flavors and aromas is the much-loved West Virginia Pepperoni Roll—a gastronomic testament to the state's coal-mining past and a delicious symbol of its proud culture.

History and origin of Virginia pepperoni rolls

The pepperoni roll's history traces back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants flocked to North Central West Virginia, lured by the promise of work in the bustling coal mines. The pepperoni roll was, in essence, an ingenious solution to the miners' lunchtime predicament—how to enjoy a robust, filling, and portable meal that could survive the rigors of a long day in the coal mines?

pepperoni rolls are West Virginia comfort food

Italian baker Giuseppe "Joseph" Argiro, credited as the first to commercially produce pepperoni rolls, found a winning formula in the 1920s. The simple yet hearty combination of spicy pepperoni encased in soft, yeasted bread quickly gained popularity. The rolls were easy to pack, required no refrigeration, and most importantly, could be eaten effortlessly, even in the dusty, grimy environment of the mines.

Regional variations

Like any traditional dish, the pepperoni roll has seen numerous adaptations based on regional preferences and individual creativity. Some variations include the addition of bell peppers, onions, or marinara sauce. Others have ventured further afield, adding jalapenos for a spicy kick, or even turning it into a sweet-savory treat by adding a glaze on top. 

Pepperoni roll ingredients and preparation

The West Virginia pepperoni roll's beauty lies in its simplicity. The three core ingredients are bread dough, pepperoni, and sometimes cheese. However, the variations that have sprung from this simple concept over the years are nothing short of fascinating.

Bread

The bread is traditionally a soft, white roll, yeasted and allowed to rise before baking. Some prefer a denser texture, while others lean towards fluffier bread. Still, the primary requirement is that the dough should be sturdy enough to hold the pepperoni and its rendered fat.

Pepperoni

There are two main styles of pepperoni used in these rolls. The stick style, where a whole stick of pepperoni is baked into the roll, and the sliced style, where the roll is filled with layers of thinly sliced pepperoni. The stick style often results in a spicier roll, as the pepperoni gets to 'cook' in its juices, while the sliced style lends a more balanced, milder flavor profile.

Cheese

Though not a part of the original recipe, many modern iterations include cheese, typically mozzarella or provolone. The addition of cheese helps to balance the spiciness of the pepperoni and adds a delightful creaminess to the roll.

What is the best cheese to use in pepperoni rolls?

When selecting the best cheese for a pepperoni roll, mozzarella or provolone are typically the most popular choices. These two cheeses have a mild flavor that helps to balance the spiciness of the pepperoni and bring out its savory notes. Mozzarella is often chosen for its melting capabilities, as it provides a stretchy and creamy texture when melted. Provolone, on the other hand, has a firmer texture that adds an extra layer of flavor to the roll.

Pepperoni roll recipe

To bring together all of the historical, cultural, and culinary knowledge we've gleaned, here's a tried-and-true recipe that pays homage to the classic pepperoni roll, while adding a slight twist for tmodern times.

Ingredients

1 pound of white bread dough
2 sticks of pepperoni or 1 cup of pepperoni slices
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sea salt for topping

Procedure

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Divide your bread dough into about 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

If using pepperoni sticks, place one in the center of each dough rectangle. If using slices, spread them out evenly on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the pepperoni, then sprinkle with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Roll up the dough around the fillings, pinching the ends and seam to seal. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. 

Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with a little sea salt. 

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving warm.

Notes

This recipe stays true to the spirit of the classic West Virginia pepperoni roll, incorporating elements that reflect its rich history, while the addition of seasonings and cheese adds a layer of complexity to cater to modern palates. 

Celebrating pepperoni rolls

What began as a simple solution to miners' lunchtime woes has become an iconic and beloved part of West Virginian culture. The humble pepperoni roll has been celebrated in festivals, events, and even state holidays. It continues to be an integral part of the local diet and a source of pride for West Virginians everywhere.

From its humble origins as a portable lunch for miners to its current status as a beloved culinary symbol of West Virginian culture, pepperoni rolls have come a long way. Enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Pepperoni rolls are an authentic taste of history and tradition perfected for modern times.

The West Virginia pepperoni roll serves as a tangible connection to the state's historical and cultural roots. It is a symbol of the ingenuity and adaptability of the early Italian immigrant miners, and a tribute to the state's rich culinary tradition. Over the years, it has evolved and adapted, reflecting changing tastes and preferences, yet it continues to hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of West Virginians. Today, the pepperoni roll stands not just as a beloved snack, but as a deliciously edible testament to the ever-evolving story of the Mountain State.

Frequently asked questions about pepperoni rolls

Which states sell pepperoni rolls?

Pepperoni rolls are most commonly found in their birthplace, West Virginia, where they're a staple in bakeries, grocery stores, and even gas stations. However, their popularity has spread beyond the borders of West Virginia, especially in areas with significant populations of people with West Virginian or Italian-American heritage.

Other states where pepperoni rolls are known to be sold include:

Pennsylvania: Especially in the Western Pennsylvania region, which has strong cultural and historical connections with West Virginia.

Ohio: Particularly in the eastern parts of the state, which share a border and cultural ties with West Virginia.

Virginia: Especially in the Northern Virginia region, given its proximity to West Virginia.

Maryland: In the Western Maryland region, which shares a border with West Virginia.

Kentucky: Specifically in Eastern Kentucky, which has a similar Appalachian culture as West Virginia.

Additionally, in the era of online shopping and nationwide delivery, numerous bakeries and food services offer pepperoni rolls that can be shipped across the country. This has allowed the pepperoni roll to reach a much wider audience, introducing this regional specialty to people far beyond the borders of West Virginia.

It's important to note that while pepperoni rolls may be found in these areas, they are not nearly as ubiquitous or ingrained in local culture as they are in West Virginia. In many cases, they are sold by businesses or individuals with a connection to West Virginia or Italian-American heritage, and are often sought after as a taste of home by West Virginia transplants.

Are pepperoni rolls illegal in some states?

While pepperoni rolls themselves are not specifically illegal, there may be confusion stemming from regulations on certain types of food preparation and preservation, particularly when it comes to "potentially hazardous foods" - foods that can support the rapid growth of harmful bacteria if not properly handled. This would include any food item that combines bread with a meat product, such as pepperoni rolls.

One such regulation that could potentially apply is the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) "hot holding" requirement, which mandates that potentially hazardous foods be kept at an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) or above when being stored prior to sale. As pepperoni rolls are typically sold at room temperature, this could cause regulatory problems in some jurisdictions. It should be noted, however, that these rules are typically enforced at the local or state level, and enforcement can vary widely.

Another possible source of confusion is the USDA's regulation on pepperoni, which requires that the product be cooked to a certain temperature to kill bacteria before it can be sold. This could potentially pose a problem for traditional pepperoni rolls, which are often made by baking raw pepperoni inside the bread. However, most commercial pepperoni is pre-cooked, and many pepperoni roll recipes specify that the pepperoni should be cooked before being used in the roll.

So while there may be regulatory hurdles to selling pepperoni rolls in certain situations or jurisdictions, it's not accurate to say that they're universally "illegal" in any U.S. state. Always check with your local health department for the regulations in your specific location.

West Virginia pepperoni roll

I am a West Virginia transplant. When moving here I truly did not expect there to be a large cultural difference. After all, I lived most of my life only about four hours north of this beautiful state. How different could West Virginia be?

I found that West Virginia and Northern Ohio may be geographically close, but culturally there are a lot of differences. Life is slower here, though not all, some accents are quite thick, and there are even foods here I had never heard of before. One of those is the pepperoni roll.

A pepperoni roll is simply a white roll with pepperoni in the middle; simple, but delicious. The roll is unique. Not exactly bread like, but softer than pizza crust. Most often there are slices of pepperoni baked in the roll, but they are also made with sticks of the meat, or ground pepperoni. Traditionally they were made with meat only, but cheese is now a common addition. As the rolls bake the flavor of the pepperoni penetrates the entire thing. A good pepperoni roll is moist, but not soggy.

Pepperoni rolls are found everywhere here. You can buy them at grocery stores, or at convenience stores. They are very popular in West Virginia, and until recently were rarely found outside the state.

The pepperoni roll is said to originate in Fairmont, a small city in North-Central West Virginia.  Fairmont has given itself the title of “Pepperoni Roll Capital of the World.” There are various stories as to the origin of the pepperoni roll, but the fact is that they became a popular item with coal miners in the state. The rolls made a convenient and cheap meal for miners as they took a break from their hard labor.

I have yet to make pepperoni rolls at home. There are a few recipes out there, but the general consensus seems to be that West Virginians prefer to buy their pepperoni rolls. I like to pick them up in the grocery store as a quick snack for kids who are tired of grocery shopping. Of course, mom enjoys one or two also!