Pepperoni on pizza pairs well with ingredients such as mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and olives. These toppings add flavor and texture to the pizza, complementing the spicy and savory taste of the pepperoni.
Pizza is arguably one of the most popular dishes worldwide. It is easy to prepare, customizable, and satisfies everyone’s cravings. Whether you prefer thin crust, deep dish, or stuffed crust pizza, there is no denying that it’s a staple food in many households.
Among the various toppings available, pepperoni is a favorite among many pizza lovers for its bold and spicy flavor. But, what goes with pepperoni on pizza? In this article, we will explore some toppings that complement the taste of pepperoni and enhance your pizza experience.
Credit: www.miltonscraftbakers.com
The Classic Pairing: Pepperoni and Mushroom
Pepperoni pizza is one of the most popular pizza options, and there are many toppings that go well with it. However, one classic pairing that stands out is pepperoni and mushroom. Mushrooms are a great complement to the salty, slightly spicy flavor of the pepperoni.
There are different types of mushrooms that work well, like button, portobello, or shiitake. To prepare mushrooms for pizza, you can slice them thin and sauté them in olive oil with some garlic, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Once they are ready, you can add them to the pizza with the pepperoni and other toppings of your choice.
The combination of the earthy mushrooms with the zesty pepperoni is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Pairing With A Twist: Pepperoni and Pineapple
Pairing pepperoni with pineapple on pizza may not seem like the obvious choice, but surprisingly, the combination works well. The sweet and savory flavors complement each other, creating a unique and delicious taste. To balance the ingredients, use a moderate amount of pineapple and distribute it evenly across the pizza.
Adding pineapple not only adds sweetness to the pizza but also provides numerous health benefits. Pineapple is a great source of vitamin c, aids digestion, and helps reduce inflammation. So, don’t be afraid to try something new and add a tropical twist to your next pizza with pepperoni and pineapple.
The Spicy Pairing: Pepperoni and Jalapenos
Pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite, but adding jalapenos takes it up a notch. Jalapenos are a great complement to the spiciness of pepperoni. When preparing jalapenos for pizza, make sure to remove the seeds and membranes to control the heat.
The ideal ratio for pepperoni and jalapenos is half and half, but adjust based on personal preference. Experiment with different toppings like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Be creative, but be careful not to overload the pizza with too many toppings.
Ready to spice up your next pizza night? Try adding jalapenos to your pepperoni pizza for a spicy kick.
The Meat Lovers Pairing: Pepperoni and Sausage
The ultimate meat-lover’s pizza always includes pepperoni and sausage together. Achieving the perfect blend of these two italian meats can make or break your pizza experience. When it comes to picking the right sausage for your pizza, it’s important to consider the spice level and texture – italian sausage works well but so do sausage varieties like chorizo or andouille.
One way to avoid the sausage from being overcooked is to partially cook it before adding it to the pizza. Another technique is to thinly slice it to let it cook evenly. Whatever method you use, always ensure the sausage is cooked through.
When combined with thin slices of pepperoni on your pizza, the result is a delicious and satisfying meal for any meat lover.
The Healthier Pairing: Pepperoni and Veggies
Pepperoni is a beloved pizza topping, but have you ever thought of pairing it with vegetables? Adding veggies to your pizza not only makes it more nutritious, it also enhances the flavor. Some of the best vegetable toppings to pair with pepperoni include mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
To cook a veggie pizza, try roasting the vegetables beforehand or adding them raw to the pizza. This will give them a delicious caramelized flavor and crispy texture. By choosing the right combination of veggies, you can create a healthy and delicious pizza that everyone will enjoy.
So next time you order a pepperoni pizza, consider adding some veggies to make it a healthier pairing!
The Creamy Pairing: Pepperoni and Ricotta
Pepperoni has been a staple item on pizza for years. But something we’ve been missing out on is its perfect pairing: ricotta cheese. The creamy texture of ricotta and the spicy kick of pepperoni balance each other out beautifully. But why stop there?
Try incorporating other flavors with ricotta and pepperoni, like mushrooms and olives, or even spicy honey for a sweet and savory twist. There are no limits to the delicious combinations you can make with these two ingredients. Whether you’re making pizza at home or ordering from your favorite pizzeria, don’t hesitate to add this perfect pairing to your pizza pie.
The Bold Pairing: Pepperoni and Black Olives
Pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite for many pizza lovers. One bold pairing that tastes great on top of traditional pepperoni pizza, is black olives. These two ingredients complement each other perfectly, offering a unique and savory taste. Black olives have a rich flavor that is not overpowered by the spicy taste of pepperoni.
When making black olive pizza, consider incorporating a cooking technique such as grilling to add depth to the flavor. Other ingredients that pair well with pepperoni and black olive pizza include mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. So next time you create a pizza, consider going bold with the perfect pairing of pepperoni and black olives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Common Toppings To Pair With Pepperoni On Pizza?
Although pepperoni pairs well with just about any topping, the most common toppings to pair with it include onions, mushrooms, peppers, and olives. These toppings add texture and flavor to the pizza and complement the salty flavor of the pepperoni.
Can You Add Vegetables To Your Pepperoni Pizza?
Yes, vegetables are a great addition to a pepperoni pizza. Some of the most popular vegetables to add include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. These veggies not only add nutrition but also enhance the pizza’s flavor and texture.
What Kind Of Cheese Is Best To Use When Making Pepperoni Pizza?
Mozzarella cheese is the best cheese to use when making pepperoni pizza. It is mild in flavor, melts well, and provides the perfect balance of stretchiness and gooeyness. However, some people prefer to use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for added flavor.
How Do You Prevent Your Pepperoni From Curling Up On Pizza?
It is common for pepperoni to curl up during cooking because of the oils and fat in the meat. To prevent this, you can try blotting the pepperoni slices with a paper towel before placing them on the pizza. Alternatively, you can also try overlapping the pepperoni slices slightly to keep them flat during cooking.
Can You Make A Vegetarian Version Of Pepperoni Pizza?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of pepperoni pizza by using meat substitutes such as plant-based pepperoni or tofu. You can also load up the pizza with plenty of vegetables and cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Overall, there are tons of delicious toppings that can complement pepperoni on your pizza. From crunchy veggies like bell peppers and onions to spicy meats like sausage and bacon, the possibilities are endless. You can also experiment with different sauces like bbq or pesto for a unique flavor twist.
And for those who prefer a creamier texture, adding ricotta or feta cheese can be a game-changer. Ultimately, the key to creating the perfect pepperoni pizza is to let your taste buds guide you. So be adventurous and mix and match different ingredients until you find the perfect combination that satisfies your palate.
Whether you’re enjoying a slice at home or ordering from your favorite pizzeria, just remember that a pizza with pepperoni is always a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead and indulge in this classic favorite- you won’t be disappointed.
