The Edible Cell Calzone {An Anatomy Project}

Ulysses and I always say that when you add science to food, it makes the whole process so much more fun!!

If you have read the Sassafras twins’ story for any length of time, then you know about my affinity for all things sandwich.  So, it will come as no surprise that I want to make a sandwich-style edible cell model!

I know, I know, normally you see a Jell-O model, and that is great for dessert!

But, Ulysses and I have created a unique edible cell perfect for lunch or dinner. One that can be held in your hand – the edible cell calzone!!

Not exactly a sandwich, but close enough for our taste!

Let’s get baking!!!

How To Make An Edible Cell Model

Ulysses and I must warn you that this project requires adult supervision. The oven is hot, so use the proper gear – a heat suit is not absolutely necessary, but hot mitts are!

What You Will Need

• Pre-made pizza dough
• Cheese (ricotta and mozzarella)
• Various toppings for cell parts, things like sausage, pepperoni, olives, green peppers, and onions are great options!

How To Make It

Step 1 – Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature on the dough’s packaging, usually around 350.

Step 2 – Roll out the cell membrane, I mean dough!

Step 3 – Slap in the cytoplasm, a.k.a. ricotta and mozzarella cheese – yum!!

Step 4 – Add a nucleus! Ulysses and I are partial to a big piece of sausage, but you can use a cherry tomato if you prefer a vegetarian version.

Step 5 – Arrange a few piles of endoplasmic reticulum, or thinly sliced peppers as they are known in kitchen vernacular!

Step 6 – Fill with organelles. Ulysses and I like to use olives for mitochondria, pepperoni for vacuoles, chopped onions for centrioles, and garlic for ribosomes!

Step 7 – Fold over the membrane and seal the edges with a bit of water – after all no-one likes a busted cell!

Step 8 – Bake according to your dough’s recommendations, usually for about 30 minutes.

Step 9 – Remove the cell from the oven and let it sit to set and cool for 5 minutes.

Step 10 – Cut in half, share with a friend, and enjoy!! (Parents – Make sure you test that the calzone is not too hot to eat before the kids share it.)

Other Edible Cell Models

Just in case you are still hungry after gobbling up your edible cell calzone, check out these edible cell models:

• Jell-O Cell – The classic version!
• Sushi Cell
• Cell Cake

Don’t miss this on-line cell builder – it leads to hours of science fun!

Ulysses and I are sure that your bellies will be full of science after you finish this project! Next up – a super summer science activity for zoology!