By Larry Billinger
In a world where culinary choices can be as polarizing as political affiliations, one topic seems to consistently cook up a storm of opinions: pineapple on pizza. As a self-proclaimed pizza enthusiast who believes in topping freedom (though I draw the line at corn and shrimp), I recently sat down with my daughter Eliza to explore this deliciously controversial topic.
Eliza, a pepperoni pizza aficionado with an appreciation for the lighter shades of purple, shared her thoughts. When asked about pineapple on pizza, she interestingly remarked, “When I’m really hungry, I like it.” This candid response opens up a new perspective – perhaps our pizza topping preferences can fluctuate with our appetite!
We delved into the sweet and savory debate. Eliza smartly pointed out how we already enjoy combinations like peanut butter and jelly, which seamlessly blend salty and sweet. This comparison is food for thought – why can’t pineapple, with its tantalizing sweetness, harmonize with the savory notes of a good pizza?
Our conversation then took a quirky turn when Eliza mentioned reading about a pizza topped with orca meat. While we both agreed this was a tad too adventurous for our tastes, it did underline an essential pizza principle: the beauty of pizza lies in its limitless potential for creativity.
I recounted a humorous tale involving Canadian bacon pizza. During a late-night craving in Edmonton with fellow church members, we discovered that our neighbors to the north refer to Canadian bacon simply as ham, an amusing reminder of how pizza toppings can differ around the globe.
Reflecting on our favorite pizza memories, Eliza fondly recalled our family pizza nights in China, complete with Fanta and episodes of Dude Perfect. It was these simple joys, peppered with laughter and shared slices, that truly epitomized the essence of pizza for us.
In conclusion, whether you’re a staunch supporter or a skeptical naysayer of pineapple on pizza, it’s clear that pizza, in all its varied glory, brings us together. It’s a canvas for culinary expression, a dish that adapts to our tastes, moods, and cultural backgrounds. So, next time you’re about to order, maybe give that pineapple topping a chance – who knows, it might just surprise you!
