Exploring Lesser-Known Delights: Durian and Pineapple on Pizza
Food preferences are as varied as the world itself, and there are countless dishes and ingredients that remain obscure in certain regions. Two such examples are durian and pineapple on pizza. Let’s delve into why these items are not as popular in some areas and discuss the potential for bringing more people to appreciate them.
Durian: The Enigma Itself
DURIAN! I do know that durian has a really strong smell and is somehow a prohibited food in certain public spaces. However, in my opinion, it has an amazing taste, sweet and creamy. It's hard to understand why many people dislike it. I wish durian had a lot more fans!
Durian, often affectionately referred to as the 'king of fruits,' is a true culinary marvel in Southeast Asian cuisine. Its distinct fragrance and creamy texture make it a favorite among those who enjoy its unique flavor. Despite its popularity in places like Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, it remains controversial in other regions. Some find it off-putting due to its odor, which can be quite intense. However, taste is subjective, and many people are missing out on a delightful culinary experience.
Pineapple on Pizza: A Culinary Controversy
The post about pineapple on pizza has sparked some debate. The idea of combining tomatoes and pineapple, which both have acidic components, along with mozzarella, oregano, and the pasta crust, is met with mixed reactions. In Italy, where pizza originated, the concept of pineapple on pizza is met with skepticism. To an Italian, the idea of adding pineapple to a traditional pizza is an abstract notion.
However, the trend of pineapple on pizza has been gaining popularity in the United States and other parts of the world. Many people find the combination appealing, citing the sweet and tangy flavors as a unique twist on the classic pizza. This fusion has even made some pizza enthusiasts, such as Dennis Manning, followers of this exotic pizza trend.
Beloved and Rare: Filipino Culinary Delights
While living in the Philippines, I find that certain dishes and ingredients are harder to come by. Mexican food, for instance, is not as popular. When I visit my favorite luxury buffet monthly, I can get a wide variety of foods, but there are some dishes that are still hard to find. Mexican food, with its unique flavors and textures, is not widely available. Taco stands and kiosks at malls use imported tortillas, which are often not of good quality.
Fortunately, I can make an acceptable flour tortilla from local flour. However, if I want good corn tortillas, I have two options. I can import masa, which is both expensive due to shipping (minimum of $50 for 5 pounds) or visit a tortilla maker in the Philippines who sometimes has supplies left from influencing their chefs to use fresh, quality ingredients.
Discovering Middle Eastern Flavors
Hummus, tabouleh, gyros, and the whole of Middle Eastern cuisine are other dishes that require a journey to find. In the Philippines, Middle Eastern restaurants are scarce, so I have to travel to Atlanta, Chattanooga TN, or Asheville NC to find one.
I understand the value of cooking at home, where we can have the perfect meal whenever we want. Being a great cook is a gift to have, and my friends are also fantastic chefs. This allows us to enjoy good food without the fuss of eating out. Additionally, the benefits of having a glass of wine without the risk of driving home safely are worth considering.
In conclusion, while some food items like durian and pineapple on pizza may be considered controversial or unusual in certain regions, their potential to bring people together with a shared love for unique flavors is undeniable. By exposing more people to these delicious dishes, we can broaden our horizons and taste the world.