From savory meats to delectable cheeses, zesty sauces to delightful fruits, we discover the origins, popular combinations, and irresistible tastes of these extraordinary pizza toppings that start with the letter ‘D’.
1. Danish Sausage
Danish sausage is a flavorful pizza topping that originates from Denmark. It is a type of sausage known for its distinct taste and seasonings. Danish sausage is typically made from pork and seasoned with a blend of spices such as garlic, pepper, and herbs. It can have a slightly smoky or savory flavor profile. When used as a pizza topping, Danish sausage adds a delicious meaty element and a touch of Danish culinary influence. The specific variety of Danish sausage used on pizzas may vary, and it is often sliced or crumbled before being scattered over the pizza dough and other toppings.
2. Dried Basil
Dried basil is a commonly used pizza topping that adds a burst of herbal flavor to pizzas. It is made by drying fresh basil leaves until they become brittle and can be easily crumbled. Dried basil retains the distinctive aroma and taste of fresh basil but in a concentrated form. This pizza topping is sprinkled over the pizza before or after baking to infuse the dish with its herbaceous essence. The origin of dried basil as a pizza topping can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where basil is widely used in various culinary preparations.
3. Durian
Durian is a unique and divisive pizza topping that originates from Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It is a large fruit known for its spiky exterior and pungent aroma. The flesh of the durian is rich, creamy, and custard-like, with a strong and distinctive flavor that some describe as a mix of sweet, savory, and slightly nutty. While durian is commonly enjoyed fresh, it has gained popularity as an unconventional pizza topping. When used on a pizza, the creamy and flavorful durian adds an exotic and adventurous element to the dish, creating a memorable and adventurous culinary experience. Pizza Hut Taiwan launched the durian pizza in 2022.
4. Daikon Radish
Daikon radish is a versatile pizza topping that originated in East Asia, particularly in countries like Japan, China, and Korea. It is a large and elongated radish with a mild and slightly spicy flavor. Daikon radish is often thinly sliced and used as a topping on pizzas, adding a crisp and refreshing crunch. Its subtle flavor complements other ingredients on the pizza, and it can also provide a visual appeal with its vibrant white color. The origin of daikon radish as a pizza topping can be attributed to the culinary traditions and love for fresh and healthy ingredients in East Asian cuisines.
5. Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a visually striking pizza topping that originated in Central America and is now cultivated in various tropical regions worldwide. It is a vibrant and colorful fruit with a distinctive appearance, featuring a bright pink or yellow outer skin with green scales. The flesh of the dragon fruit is white or magenta with tiny black seeds and has a mild and subtly sweet flavor. When used as a pizza topping, dragon fruit adds a visually appealing element with its eye-catching colors. It brings a refreshing and tropical touch to the pizza, providing a delightful contrast to other ingredients. The origin of dragon fruit as a pizza topping can be attributed to the growing popularity of exotic fruits and the desire to experiment with unique flavors and textures in culinary creations.
6. Duck Meat
Duck meat and duck confit are both unique and flavorful pizza toppings that offer distinct taste experiences. Duck meat, typically roasted or smoked, adds a rich and gamey flavor to pizzas, complementing ingredients like caramelized onions, arugula, or figs. On the other hand, duck confit, originating from French cuisine, involves slow-cooking duck legs in their own fat until tender and flavorful. The shredded meat is then used as a topping, providing a rich and savory taste with hints of gaminess. Duck confit pairs well with ingredients like caramelized onions, figs, or arugula, creating a gourmet pizza option influenced by French culinary traditions. These toppings demonstrate the desire to incorporate unique and indulgent flavors into pizza creations.
7. Doner Kebab Meat
Doner kebab meat, also know as donair meat, is a popular pizza topping that has its roots in Turkey. It is a type of meat preparation where thinly sliced lamb, beef, or chicken is marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, then stacked and roasted on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is slowly cooked and shaved off in thin slices, creating tender and flavorful pieces. Doner kebab is widely enjoyed as a street food in Turkey and has gained popularity worldwide. It is often used as a topping on pizzas, adding a savory and aromatic taste. The combination of the tender meat, along with toppings like onions, tomatoes, and yogurt sauce, creates a delicious fusion of flavors. Doner kebab as a pizza topping showcases the influence of Turkish cuisine and its global appeal in the realm of pizza toppings.
8. Donair Sauce
Donair sauce is a tangy and sweet condiment that originated in the Canadia. It is commonly used as a topping for donair, a popular Canadian street food. Donair sauce is typically made from a combination of evaporated milk, sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, and spices. When used as a pizza topping, the sauce adds a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness and tanginess. It pairs well with ingredients like seasoned ground meat, onions, and tomatoes, creating a delicious and distinctive taste experience on the pizza.
9. Deli Meat
Deli meat, also known as deli-style meat, refers to a variety of sliced meats that are commonly used as pizza toppings. These meats are typically thinly sliced and include options such as pepperoni, salami, ham, turkey, or roast beef. Deli meats offer a range of flavors and textures, adding a savory and protein-rich element to the pizza. The origin of using deli meat as a pizza topping can be traced back to the popularity of deli sandwiches, where these meats were first showcased. Their inclusion on pizzas allows for a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy different meat options.
10. Dried Fruits
Dried fruits, such as dried cherries and dried cranberries, are unique pizza toppings that add a burst of sweetness and chewy texture to the dish. While there isn’t a specific origin associated with using dried fruits on pizza, their popularity can be attributed to the desire for unconventional flavor combinations and the exploration of sweet and savory contrasts. Dried cherries and dried cranberries are commonly used in various cuisines around the world, and their inclusion on pizzas has gained traction in different regions that embrace the concept of fruit-infused toppings. The tangy-sweet flavor of dried cherries and the tart-sweetness of dried cranberries provide a pleasant balance when paired with other ingredients like cheese, cured meats, or even fresh herbs. These dried fruits offer a delightful pop of flavor and a hint of natural sweetness to the pizza, appealing to those seeking a unique and adventurous culinary experience.
11. Double Cheese
Double cheese refers to the use of an extra layer or amount of cheese on top of a pizza. It enhances the cheesiness and richness of the pizza, providing a gooey and indulgent texture. Double cheese pizzas are particularly popular among cheese enthusiasts and those seeking a more decadent pizza experience. The use of double cheese as a pizza topping is not attributed to a specific origin but rather represents a preference for extra cheese on pizzas to enhance their flavor and overall enjoyment.
12. Dill Pickles
Dill pickles are a tangy and crunchy pizza topping made from cucumbers that have been pickled in a brine solution flavored with dill weed. These pickles add a unique flavor profile to pizzas, balancing the richness of other ingredients with their refreshing and slightly sour taste. Dill pickles are commonly used as a topping on specialty pizzas or in combination with other ingredients like bacon, ham, or cheese.
13. Danish Blue Cheese
Danish blue cheese, also known as Danablu, is a creamy and tangy cheese that originates from Denmark. This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is characterized by its blue veins and distinctive pungent flavor. When used as a pizza topping, Danish blue cheese adds a bold and savory taste that complements other ingredients such as caramelized onions, figs, or prosciutto. The creamy texture of the cheese melts beautifully when heated, creating a luscious and indulgent element on the pizza. Danish blue cheese has gained popularity worldwide and is now enjoyed in various cuisines and culinary creations, including pizza.
14. Drunken Chicken
Drunken chicken is a flavorful pizza topping that involves marinating chicken in a mixture of herbs, spices, and alcohol before cooking. The alcohol used in the marinade can vary, with options like beer, wine, or spirits being common choices. The marinated chicken is then cooked until tender and juicy before being added as a topping on the pizza. Drunken chicken brings a unique depth of flavor to the pizza, infusing it with the aromatic notes of the marinade. The origin of drunken chicken as a pizza topping can be attributed to the culinary practice of marinating and cooking chicken in alcohol-infused preparations, which has been popular in various cultures around the world.
15. Deep-Fried Onions
Deep-fried onions are a crispy and flavorful pizza topping created by frying sliced onions until golden and crispy. The deep-frying process transforms the onions, giving them a crunchy texture and intensifying their natural sweetness. Deep-fried onions are often used as a topping on specialty pizzas or as an ingredient in combination with other toppings like bacon, mushrooms, or peppers. The addition of deep-fried onions adds a delightful texture and a savory-sweet flavor to the pizza.
16. Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard is a popular pizza topping that originated in the city of Dijon, France. It is a smooth and creamy mustard made from brown or black mustard seeds, white wine or wine vinegar, water, salt, and sometimes additional spices. Dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to pizzas and can be added to the sauce or it can be used to marinate meats used as toppings, providing a unique contrast to the richness of cheese and other toppings. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century in Dijon, where it became renowned for its distinctive taste and versatility in various culinary applications.
17. Dulce de Leche Sauce
Dulce de leche sauce is a sweet and caramel-like sauce that originated in Latin America, particularly in Argentina and Uruguay. It is made by slowly cooking condensed milk or sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and develops a rich caramel flavor. Dulce de leche sauce adds a decadent sweetness to dessert pizzas, creating a dessert-like experience when paired with complementary toppings like bananas or chocolate. Its origin in Latin America and its popularity in desserts and sweets have led to its incorporation as a unique and indulgent pizza topping.
18. Dates
Dates are a sweet and chewy fruit that grows on date palm trees. They have a long history and are believed to have originated in the Middle East thousands of years ago. Dates are a versatile pizza topping, especially when paired with savory ingredients like cheese or prosciutto. They add a natural sweetness and a pleasant chewiness to the pizza, creating a balance of flavors and textures. The origin of dates as a pizza topping can be attributed to the cultural significance and culinary traditions surrounding dates in regions where they are grown.
19. Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a type of crab found along the West Coast of North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its sweet and delicate meat, making it a sought-after ingredient in seafood dishes. When used as a pizza topping, Dungeness crab adds a luxurious and seafood-forward flavor to the pizza. The crab meat is typically cooked and then scattered over the pizza, providing a taste of the ocean and enhancing the overall dining experience. The origin of Dungeness crab as a pizza topping can be traced back to the coastal regions where it is harvested and enjoyed in various culinary preparations.
20. Duxelles (Mushroom Paste)
Duxelles is a pizza topping that originated in French cuisine and is popular in various parts of the world. It is a savory paste made from finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, herbs (such as thyme and parsley), and sometimes garlic. The mixture is cooked down until it forms a thick paste that is rich in flavor. Duxelles is commonly used as a topping for gourmet pizzas, adding an earthy and umami taste. It pairs well with other ingredients like cheese and cured meats. The origin of duxelles can be traced back to French culinary traditions, where it is often used in various dishes as a flavorful filling or component.
21. Demi-glace
Demi-glace is a rich and flavorful sauce that is popular as a pizza topping in certain regions. It is a classic French sauce made by reducing a combination of veal or beef stock and brown sauce. The reduction process results in a concentrated sauce with a deep, meaty flavor and a velvety texture. Demi-glace adds a luxurious and savory element to pizzas, especially when used in combination with other ingredients like cheese, mushrooms, or caramelized onions. The origin of demi-glace as a pizza topping has roots that can be traced back to French cuisine, where it is commonly used as a sauce or base for various dishes.
22. Duck Sausage
Duck sausage is a pizza topping that is enjoyed in different parts of the world, particularly in European and North American cuisines. It is a type of sausage made from ground duck meat mixed with various seasonings and spices. Duck sausage offers a rich and distinct flavor that sets it apart from traditional pork or beef sausages. It is often seasoned with herbs like thyme, garlic, and black pepper, enhancing its savory profile. As a pizza topping, duck sausage adds a unique and gamey taste, creating a flavorful combination with other ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or fruits. The popularity of duck sausage on pizzas can be attributed to the desire for diverse and gourmet toppings that elevate the taste experience.
23. Dry-Cured Chorizo
Dry-cured chorizo is a pizza topping that has its origins in Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. It is a type of sausage made from pork meat that has been seasoned with various spices, such as paprika, garlic, and chili peppers, and then air-dried or smoked. Dry-cured chorizo is known for its intense and robust flavor, which adds a smoky and spicy kick to pizzas. It is often thinly sliced and placed on top of the pizza, where it releases its rich flavors during the baking process. The popularity of dry-cured chorizo as a pizza topping can be attributed to its bold taste and the influence of Spanish and Portuguese culinary traditions on global cuisine.
24. Dark Chocolate Chips
Dark chocolate chips are a delightful and indulgent dessert pizza topping that adds a touch of sweetness and richness to the savory dish. Originating from the cocoa bean, dark chocolate is typically made with a higher percentage of cocoa solids, resulting in a deeper and more intense flavor. Dark chocolate chips are commonly used as a topping on dessert pizzas, where they melt and create a luscious, gooey texture. While chocolate is enjoyed worldwide, the use of dark chocolate chips as a pizza topping can be found in various regions that embrace the fusion of sweet and savory flavors in their culinary creations.
25. Duck Prosciutto
Duck prosciutto is a specialty pizza topping that originated in Italy, known for its cured and delicate slices of duck breast. It is made by dry-curing the meat with salt and various spices, then allowing it to air-dry over a period of time. The result is a flavorful and thinly sliced prosciutto with a distinct taste that combines the richness of duck with the traditional characteristics of cured meats. Duck prosciutto adds a unique and gourmet touch to pizzas, offering a delicate and savory flavor profile. While Italian cuisine is renowned for its prosciutto made from pork, the use of duck as a meat alternative has gained popularity in certain culinary circles, particularly among those who appreciate creative and artisanal toppings.
26. Diced Meat
Diced meat is a popular pizza topping that adds savory flavor and texture to pizzas. The term “diced meat” refers to small, evenly cut pieces of various meats such as chicken, beef, pork, or even lamb. These meat pieces are typically seasoned and cooked before being added to the pizza. Diced meat provides a protein-packed element to pizzas and can be a versatile option to cater to different meat preferences.
