Pepperoni on Pizza: Italian vs American Tastes

In the United States, a pizza with pepperoni is a common and popular choice. However, when traveling to Italy, one might be surprised to find that pepperoni on pizza is not as common as it is in America. This article explores the difference in pizza toppings between these two countries and delves into why Italians prefer other ingredients over what we consider American pepperoni.

Understanding the Difference

If you speak to a native Italian and ask for a pizza with pepperoni, they may look confused. In Italy, if you specify that you want pepperoni, what you'll get is actually bell peppers on your pizza. However, in the United States, pepperoni is more commonly understood as a type of spicy salami.

Types of Pepperoni in Italy

While American pepperoni (Italian-American variety) is not found outside of the US, Italians do enjoy various types of hot salamis that can be used on pizza. These include:

Salsiccia calabrese: A spicy sausage from Calabria that is often used in pizza recipes. N#039;duja: A spreadable, spicy salami that is quite popular in Southern Italy and often used as a pizza topping.

The pizza using these spicy sausages is often called diavola, meaning "the devilish way," to describe its spicy nature. The toppings include mozzarella, tomato, and the spicy salamis.

Pizza Toppings in Italy

While pepperoni (the American variety) is not a common topping in Italy, Italians do enjoy different types of bread and toppings that can be used. For example:

Peperoni (bell peppers): Often grilled and mixed with other vegetables, giving a colorful and varied pizza with a unique taste. Salamino (spicy salami): Used in the pizza diavola, which is known for its spicy flavor.

Conclusion

Italians have different preferences when it comes to pizza toppings, and while pepperoni (the American type) is not a common ingredient in Italy, there are plenty of other delicious options. From spicy salamis to grilled bell peppers, each pizza offers a unique flavor and experience. So, the next time you visit Italy, be prepared to enjoy a pizza that will delight your taste buds in a different and delightful way.