5 Exotic Pizza Toppings from Around the World

Pizza, celebrated by many is much more than it seems as it originated from Naples, Italy. The most special thing about pizza culture is the wonderful range of toppings that can be found in different parts of the world. When pepperoni and mushrooms are the favorite toppings in some places, the others go for something more exotic that reflect their culture. Our gastronomic tour will allow us to discover five specialty pizza toppings from across the world, each with a unique combination of tastes and traditions.

Kangaroo Pizza – Australia:

Australia’s vast and diverse landscape is reflected not only in its wildlife but also in its culinary offerings. Australian Kangaroo meat which is lean and flavorful has grown to be in demand by the daring diners. Kangaroo pizza, where thinly sliced marinated kangaroo meat is embraced, combines the uncommon gamey taste of the flesh with bold Australian ingredients such as bush tomatoes, wild rocket, and bush chutney. In order to achieve the perfect crispness and flavor infusion of Kangaroo Pizza toppings, it’s essential to use a high-quality Commercial Pizza Oven that can evenly distribute heat and ensure a consistent bake every time. 

Okonomiyaki Pizza – Japan:

The culinary innovation in Japan is limitless, which is fully seen in the fusion of the traditional Japanese flavors with Western dishes. Okonomiyaki, a well-known Japanese exquisite pancake, likewise turns into a garnish for pizza in Japan. The peculiarity of this topping makes it unique with cabbage, green onions, a pork belly and an okonomiyaki sauce that preferences with barbecue flavor. Finally, the dish becomes a flavor explosion that contains its main notes of sweet, savory, and umami.

Reindeer Pizza – Scandinavia: 

In the snowy pampas of Scandinavia where reindeer can be seen grazing, it is understandable that this regal animal makes its way to the tables of food lovers. Slim and tender reindeer meat is the main element on a Scandinavian pizza. Most often thinly cut and marinated in a mix of herbs and spices, reindeer meat adds a robust and slightly gamey flavor to the pizza. Reindeer pizza perfectly represents Scandinavian traditions when combined with traditional toppings such as lingonberries, juniper berries, and rich goat cheese. With every mouthful, you get a true taste of the Nordic wilds.

Durian Pizza – Southeast Asia: 

As durian in Southeast Asia is often called the “king of fruits”, it is notorious for its ripe smell and sharp taste. Irrespective of several controversies, the devotees of the durian love its smooth texture and complex flavor. The adventurous craftsperson of Malaysia and Thailand have blended the exotics mangoes into pizzas. Durian pizza is made with ripe durian fruit that is layered on top of mozzarella cheese and topped off with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk to counter the intense flavors of the fruit.

Haggis Pizza – Scotland: 

Not everyone likes to have haggis, a traditional Scottish dish made of sheep’s organs, onions, oatmeal, and spices as a pizza topping, but in Scotland, they consider it a celebrated culinary tradition. Haggis pizza goes beyond your imagination with your most beloved Scottish bites spread over a pizza crust. The revelation of creamy mashed potatoes, sharp Scottish cheddar and whisky infused sauce, creates a duality between the heritage of Scottish culinary and pizza.

Conclusion:

From the busy streets of Tokyo to the damp landscapes of Scotland, pizza toppings depict the diverse cultures and tasty snacks we can get from all over the world. Whether it is the umami-rich flavors of okonomiyaki from Japan or the bold, gamey tastes of kangaroo meat from Australia, each exquisite topping has an influence on the wonderful mosaic of world flavors. Therefore, the next time you aim for a pizza craving, start embarking on a culinary adventure and explore those exotic flavors. In that sense, maybe the pizza has no boundaries. Bon appétit!