A recent study has unveiled the UK’s top pizza toppings, with pepperoni emerging as the nation’s favourite. This revelation comes from research conducted by Dutch lifestyle magazine Dailybase, which analysed Google search data for 50 popular pizza toppings in the UK.
Pepperoni Reigns Supreme
Pepperoni has clinched the top spot with an impressive average of 8,682.50 monthly searches. This spicy cured meat, a type of salami typically made from pork or a combination of pork and beef, is flavoured with paprika, chilli, black pepper, garlic, and mixed herbs. Its popularity underscores the British appetite for a bit of spice and bold flavours on their pizzas.
Surprising Second: Anchovy
Anchovies, often considered a more niche topping, have surprisingly secured the second position with 4,786.67 average monthly searches. These small, oily fish are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, known for their health benefits. The salty, umami-packed flavour of anchovies offers a distinctive taste, proving that adventurous palates are not uncommon among British pizza enthusiasts.
Chicken Claims Third Place
In third place, chicken garners an average of 3,014.17 monthly searches. This versatile meat is beloved for its adaptability to various flavours and cooking styles. A popular variation is the BBQ pulled chicken pizza, often complemented by peppers and onions, reflecting the British preference for hearty and flavourful toppings.
Pineapple: A Divisive Favourite
Pineapple, a topping that often divides opinion, ranks fourth with 2,303.33 average monthly searches. Typically paired with ham to create the classic Hawaiian pizza, pineapple’s sweet and salty combination continues to entice many, despite its controversial reputation.
Classic Mozzarella
Rounding out the top five is mozzarella, with 2,015.00 average monthly searches. This semi-soft cheese, made from cow or buffalo milk, is celebrated for its subtle flavour and stretchy texture when melted. It remains a staple in traditional Margherita pizzas, highlighting the British appreciation for classic and simple ingredients.
Top 5 Favourite Pizza Toppings
| Rank | Topping | Average Monthly Search Volume |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pepperoni | 8,682.50 |
| 2 | Anchovy | 4,786.67 |
| 3 | Chicken | 3,014.17 |
| 4 | Pineapple | 2,303.33 |
| 5 | Mozzarella | 2,015.00 |
Insights from Dailybase
Daniël de Voer, chief editor of Dailybase, commented on the findings: “One of the reasons why pizza is so popular is how versatile it can be; you can completely customise your toppings to fit your tastes and create a pizza unique to you.”
He continued, “It is fascinating to discover which toppings are the most popular in each country. We can see plenty of influence from different cuisines across Europe, not just from Italy, such as the Mediterranean with the additions of feta, olives, and fish, and even Turkish food, like doner meat making the list in some areas.”
De Voer suggests that the summer season is an ideal time for Britons to experiment with new pizza toppings: “With summer in full swing, if there’s a topping on the list you haven’t tried before, now is the perfect time to see what the hype is about.”
Conclusion
This study underscores the diverse and evolving tastes of British pizza lovers. While traditional favourites like pepperoni and mozzarella continue to dominate, there is also a notable appreciation for more unconventional choices such as anchovies and pineapple. As pizza remains a beloved staple in the UK, the variety of popular toppings highlights the nation’s culinary curiosity and willingness to explore new flavours.
For more information, visit https://www.dailybase.com/.