The Most Controversial Pizza Toppings: From Kiwi to Habaneros
When it comes to pizza, toppings can spark some heated debates. While the addition of pineapple on pizza has been a controversial topic, the world of pizza toppings holds many other surprises. One topping that has garnered significant attention and earned a place in internet lore is kiwi fruit. Let's delve into why kiwi pizza might unseat pineapple as the most controversial topping and explore other odd pizza toppings from Japan and beyond.
From Horror to Controversy: Kiwi Pizza
The horror that has unseated pineapple pizza is the inclusion of kiwi fruit on pizza. Perhaps more than any other topping, the appearance of kiwi on a pizza slice can drive people to madness. For those who aren't familiar, think of it as a green, fuzzy mess topped with a fruit that, for many, evokes a sense of dread. This eldritch horror (kiwi pizza) is so intense that even the Elder Gods might find it worthy of their attention.
Despite the cultural divide, I personally don't find pineapple on pizza as repulsive as popular culture might suggest. However, I do confess to having strong mixed feelings about kiwi on pizza. My personal experience and observations, especially in Japan, have led me to explore other bizarre toppings that have captured the imaginations and avoidance of pizza enthusiasts.
Japanese Pizza Toppings to Hesitate Over
When it comes to pizza in Japan, the toppings can be quite unconventional. Two of the most notable toppings that attract a big nope from many pizza lovers are mayonnaise and whitebait (shirasu).
Mayonnaise on Pizza
Mayonnaise in Japan is not your typical dressing. It's used in a way that might surprise some Western pizza enthusiasts. In numerous dishes, from okonomiyaki (a savory Japanese pancake) to gyudon (a beef curry rice bowl), mayonnaise is a key ingredient. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor change the game entirely. Certain pizza chains, such as Domino's Pizza-la and Pizza Hut, even offer mayonnaise-laden pizzas as part of their menu, ranking high in popularity. However, this topping might take some getting used to.
Whitebait (Shirasu)
Another unconventional ingredient that has made its way to pizza in Japan is whitebait. These tiny white fish are not only a delicacy but also a pizza topping. Imagine ordering a pizza and being greeted with hundreds, if not thousands, of miniature eyes. While they add a unique flavor and a fun texture, this topping is not for the faint of heart.
Other Wacky Pizza Toppings from the '80s
In the late 1980s, when TMNT was a global phenomenon, pizza chains offered some truly wacky toppings. One memorable pizza was the "Cheese Tomato" pizza, which evolved into a "Cheese Tomato, Apple, and Custard" pizza. This unconventional combination might have seemed like a sweet and savory treat, but the inclusion of both sweet and custard on a savory pizza is a step too far for many.
For those who yearn for more of a fiery experience, why not try a pizza adorned with sliced habanero chilies and a generous drizzle of “Salsa Valenina”? After baking, this spicy treat might just convert you into a true believer of the Hawaiian pizza. To take it to the next level, you could even bake the pizza with the Salsa Valenina sauce, which might help in getting rid of cockroaches, but the flavor might be a bit much for those who aren't used to such intense flavors.
Conclusion
Whether you're diving into the world of kiwi pizza, trying savory mayonnaise, or exploring the intriguing taste of whitebait, the world of pizza toppings is full of surprises. The sweet-pit of pineapple on pizza might have just been unseated by the strange flavors of Japan. The pizza topping game is always evolving, and it's worth exploring these wacky toppings to see what might become your newest pizza love – or turn you off for good.