Pizza has been a global sensation for as long as one can remember. Crispy, fluffy base slathered with rich tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella, pizza is so versatile that it is both the perfect party snack and a comfortable weekend meal. The term ‘pizza’ was first coined in 997 AD, and ever since it has led a revolution in culinary history.
Now we already know what a basic pie is like, but over the years pizza has evolved and adapted to the lands it was brought in. The flavors were tailored and experimented with according to the local cuisines and somehow, it tasted good every time— well minus the pineapple if you’re that person. Today, let’s delve into one of the most important elements of the pizza— the toppings. Toppings make or break a pizza and here are the top 10 pizza toppings around the world.
Why Pizza Toppings Define the Experience
A simple pie is a blank canvas that can be decorated with so many flavors and textures. Toppings are a quintessential part of a pizza. They are the personality hire. And when it comes to pizza toppings the skin is the limit. The right combination of toppings can change a meh pizza into a culinary masterpiece and that is exactly why it is so important to know your toppings.
We at Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza and Wings understand the importance of personalization and the pivotal role it plays in the pizza experience. So much so that, with us, you can even customize your own pizza.
The Most Famous Pizza Toppings
As pizza was shared between cultures through migration, trade, and cultural exchange, pizza toppings were the easiest part to experiment with and localize to fit the taste palette of various cultures. But still, we have rounded up the most popular options. Some of these are Italian classics. Others, not so much.
Pepperoni
Probably the most classic ingredient that takes the crown almost every time a pizza is mentioned. This smoky, slightly spicy, cured meat provides the best combination of saltiness and that subtle meaty, spicy flavor. Every bite of a pepperoni pizza is hearty, satisfying, and smells like the streets of New York.
Burrata
Fancy and artisanal pizzas are all the rage right now, and burrata cheese is an Instagram celebrity of its own. So it’s only natural that they have a love child together. Burrata adds immense richness and creaminess to the pizza and is often paired well with a hot honey glaze, much like our Mike’s Hot Honey and Burrata Pizza. We can assure you, that’s what heaven tastes like.
Mushroom
Mushrooms in itself boast of a distinct umami flavor. The smoky earthy flavor gets pronounced as gets coal-fired and is a favorite among non-meat eaters. Mushrooms are also a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and iron, and are a perfect topping for those looking to hit their micronutrient targets. To add a touch of luxe, mushrooms are often paired with truffle oil giving it a deep, earthy flavor profile.
Olives
Olives carry a very salty, briny taste that gets mild while it’s in the oven. While they don’t add much on their own, olives enhance and carry the taste of other ingredients amazingly. Olives are often paired with spinach and feta cheese to craft Mediterranean-style pizzas–the true classics.
Basil
Refreshing sweet herb with a pungent smell, basil is quite possibly the first pizza topping (after cheese, obviously!). The earliest records of basil as a pizza topping go back to the 1700s. Out of the oven, with a drizzle of olive oil, mozzarella, and torn-up fresh basil leaves, you have yourself Queen Margherita of Savoy’s favorite meal (allegedly!) like our Square Margherita.
Sausage
Sausages are amazing to add to pizzas for an extra boost of flavor and protein. Robust flavors of fennel, cumin, garlic, chili flakes, and sausages add a layer of smoky depth to the basic pie. Be it the classic Italian sausage crumbled, or zingy, spicy chorizo, this topping is bound to add extra spice to your pizza.
Peppers
With their vibrant hues and textures, peppers add a hint of sweetness and a mild crunch to your pizza. They also pair well with other toppings like onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, and olives. Peppers are very versatile and are a great topping option for all the veggie pizza lovers out there.
Cauliflower
A little unconventional, but hold your judgment till you try out our Roasted Cauliflower Pizza. Cauliflower as a vegetable has been overlooked and neglected for a while, but when coal-fired right, it adds an amazing charred flavor to your pizza. Topped with pecorino, romano, and breadcrumbs, cauliflower is the new IT girl in the world of pizza toppings.
Try out these unique toppings!
Pizza is a truly versatile meal. Whether you are a classic pizza aficionado or a newly warming up to the idea of including a slice of pizza in your diet, don’t forget to play around and have fun with pizza toppings, just like we do at Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza and Wings.
We are known for delivering the freshest ingredients and meals packed with flavor and satisfaction. From our hand-tossed pizzas to our exquisite coal-fired starters, each meal with us feels like a warm hug. Join us in an outlet nearest to you or place an order with us to accompany your perfect date-night today!
