The land of pizza toppings is as diverse as the cultures that create them. While classic options like pepperoni, mushrooms, and cheese are beloved staples, global cuisine introduces a myriad of unique and unexpected ingredients that elevate the humble pizza to extraordinary culinary heights. From the spicy streets of Thailand to the rich traditions of Italy, pizza enthusiasts around the globe are experimenting with new and exciting flavors that challenge the conventional. Here, we will start a gastronomic journey, exploring some of the most unique pizza toppings from around the land and the stories behind them.
Japan is known for its bold and innovative flavors, and this creativity extends to pizza as well. One of the more unusual toppings in Japan is squid, often served with a drizzle of mayonnaise and "Jaga" (potato). The combination of seafood, creamy mayo, and soft potatoes creates a rich and satisfying experience that’s quite different from the traditional Italian pizza.
Mayo Jaga pizzas are a popular choice in Japan, where mayo is commonly used as a condiment. The slightly sweet and creamy texture of Japanese mayonnaise complements the tender squid, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Sweden has introduced one of the most surprising combinations in the land of pizza: banana and curry. Known locally as the "Pizza Africana," this creation mixes slices of ripe banana with curry powder, creating a sweet and savoury sensation. Some versions of this pizza even include peanuts, pineapple, and ham to balance the flavors.
The Swedish banana-curry pizza is an acquired taste, but it’s beloved by many locals. The sweetness of the banana and the bold spices from the curry create an unusual yet intriguing contrast that has made this pizza a favourite in Sweden.
In Brazil, pizza takes on a whole new identity, particularly with the addition of green peas as a topping. While green peas may seem like an unusual choice, they add a bright pop of color and texture to the pizza. The real star of the show, however, is Catupiry cheese – a creamy, tangy Brazilian soft cheese that melts beautifully over the crust.
This combination of green peas and Catupiry cheese is often paired with a variety of meats such as ham or chicken. The result is a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet pizza that’s unlike anything you’d find elsewhere.
South Korea has embraced pizza as a popular dish, but with their own twist – sweet potato pizza. This unique pizza is topped with roasted or mashed sweet potatoes, which add a creamy, slightly sweet layer to the pizza. It’s also common to see a stuffed crust filled with sweet potato puree.
The combination of savoury cheese, tomato sauce, and the sweet earthiness of sweet potato creates a balance of flavors that’s both unexpected and comforting. South Korean sweet potato pizza often includes additional toppings like corn, mushrooms, and even bulgogi (Korean marinated beef) for a truly local experience.
India, with its rich and diverse culinary heritage, offers a vegetarian-friendly twist on pizza with paneer tikka as the star topping. Paneer is a soft Indian cheese, and when marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and grilled, it becomes the perfect topping for an Indian-style pizza. Often accompanied by bell peppers, onions, and a sprinkle of Indian spices, paneer tikka pizza delivers a burst of flavor with every bite.
The combination of the soft paneer, fragrant spices, and a crisp pizza crust makes this a unique fusion of Italian and Indian cuisines. It’s a great option for those looking for a spicier, more aromatic take on traditional pizza.
In Russia, seafood is a common feature in local dishes, and this extends to pizza as well. The Mockba pizza is named after Moscow and features a seafood medley that includes sardines, mackerel, salmon, and onions. Typically served cold, this pizza is topped with fresh dill and sometimes caviar, offering a luxurious, briny flavor profile.
While it may sound unusual to pizza purists, the combination of smoked fish and the richness of the other ingredients create a bold and hearty flavor that’s distinctly Russian. It’s a unique seafood lover’s pizza that reflects the region's love for smoked and pickled delicacies.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cheese pizza or looking to explore the different variations, Joe's Pizza Stone offers an authentic pizza experience. Our stone baked pizza is made fresh daily and our toppings are sourced locally for the freshest and most flavorful pizzas.
Come visit us and try out our signature pizzas or create your own with a wide selection of toppings. With every bite, you’ll taste the passion and dedication we put into crafting each pizza, making it a truly delicious and satisfying experience.
