Pepperoni rolls get their due
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May 31 06:09:56, 2025
The pepperoni roll, often celebrated as the quintessential snack of the Appalachian and Rust Belt regions, finds its spiritual home in Fairmont, West Virginia. This small town is credited with birthing the pepperoni roll, though the story behind its origins remains shrouded in local legend. As Danny Palumbo writes for Eater, this working-class staple has a certain charm that transcends its simple ingredients. He takes readers on a journey through some of the best spots in the area where you can still savor these classic treats.
Many West Virginians point to a Sicilian immigrant who worked in the coal mines as the creator of this beloved snack. When he opened a restaurant in Fairmont, it’s said that the pepperoni roll was born out of necessity—something hearty, portable, and satisfying for miners and laborers alike. At the turn of the 20th century, the region drew immigrants from across Europe, and Italians made up a significant portion of the foreign-born population in West Virginia. It’s no surprise then that this dish might have been invented in such a melting pot of cultures.
Even if its exact origins lie elsewhere, the pepperoni roll quickly became synonymous with West Virginia. While Palumbo mentions that some prefer pepperoni slices, purists insist that stick pepperoni is the gold standard. Having lived in West Virginia for over a decade, I can attest that stick pepperoni offers a richer flavor, though sliced versions are certainly enjoyable. Cheese-wise, mozzarella reigns supreme—if you choose to include cheese at all. And whatever you do, resist the urge to add tomato sauce; it’s considered sacrilegious among true aficionados.
In essence, the pepperoni roll belongs to a long tradition of portable, protein-packed meals like meat pies. These handheld snacks were designed to be practical, offering sustenance for workers in challenging environments. Surprisingly, when I searched the EatingWell.com Library, I discovered only six pepperoni roll recipes, with just two being accessible online. If you happen to have access to the Cook’s Illustrated or Cook’s Country version, consider giving it a try—it’s widely regarded as the definitive recipe. For those without access, the Pepperoni Rolls recipe from Simply Recipes by Sara Bir, featured above, is a solid alternative.
Though simple in concept, the pepperoni roll carries a deep connection to West Virginia’s history and identity. Whether enjoyed at a local bakery or packed into a lunchbox, it continues to be more than just food—it’s a symbol of resilience and community.