National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day

A Slice of Heaven Without the Fish

Ah, 12 November, National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day! It’s that glorious time of year when we celebrate the art of piling on toppings while giving those tiny fish the boot. As a self-proclaimed pizza aficionado lover, I’ve got to tell you, this holiday is right up my alley. It’s like Christmas for cheese lovers, a carnival for carnivores, and a veggie fiesta rolled into one delicious, circular package.

Before we dive face-first into this cheesy goodness, let’s get one thing straight: this isn’t just another run-of-the-mill food holiday. Oh no, my friends. This is a day when we come together to honour the beauty of a fully loaded pizza, minus those divisive little swimmers. It’s a day when we can all agree that more is more, except when it comes to anchovies.

The Roots of Our Saucy Obsession

You might think pizza is as American as apple pie, but let me take you on a little journey through time. Picture this ancient Rome, where flatbreads were all the rage. These weren’t your average slices, though. Nope, these bad boys were topped with… wait for it… fermented fish. I know, I know, it sounds like a dare gone wrong, but trust me, it’s true.

The ancient Romans called their version of pizza “focaccia”, and it was a far cry from the gooey, cheesy delight we know today. But hey, you’ve got to start somewhere, right? As the Roman Empire spread, so did their love for these topped flatbreads. It’s like they were the original food influencers, minus the Instagram filters.

Fast forward to the 18th century, and we find ourselves in Naples, Italy. This is where pizza as we know it really started to take shape. Naples was a bustling waterfront city, teeming with working-class folks who needed cheap, quick meals. Enter the pizza a flatbread topped with tomatoes, cheese, and other affordable ingredients. It was the original fast food, long before golden arches and drive-thrus were even a twinkle in anyone’s eye.

But here’s where it gets interesting. For a long time, pizza was considered a poor man’s food. The upper crust (pun intended) wouldn’t be caught dead munching on a slice. That all changed when Queen Margherita of Italy visited Naples in 1889. A local pizzaiolo named Raffaele Esposito created a pizza in her honour, topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to represent the colours of the Italian flag. The Queen loved it, and just like that, pizza got the royal seal of approval. Talk about a PR win!

Now, let’s hop across the pond to the United States. In 1905, Lombardi’s opened its doors in New York City, becoming the first pizzeria in the USA. Can you imagine being there for that first slice? The smell of bubbling cheese, the crisp crust, the… well, probably not anchovies, but you get the picture.

But it wasn’t until after World War II that pizza hit its stride in the States. Soldiers coming back from Italy had a hankering for those delicious pies they’d tasted overseas, and boom! Pizza joints started popping up faster than you can say “extra cheese, please.” It was like a pizza explosion, minus the messy cleanup.

Why We’re Mad About Pizza (But Not About Anchovies)

Let’s talk numbers for a sec. Did you know that the average American eats about 46 slices of pizza per year? That’s right, we’re a nation of pizza lovers, and we’re not ashamed to admit it. In fact, pizza is so popular that it’s estimated to be a $45 billion industry in the US alone. That’s a lot of dough, in more ways than one!

But here’s where it gets interesting only 3 in 1,000 people choose anchovies as a topping. That’s fewer people than those who think the moon landing was faked! It’s like anchovies are the black sheep of the pizza-topping family the weird cousin that no one wants to sit next to at family dinners.

So why the hate for these little fish? Well, it’s not just about the taste. Anchovies are like the bad boy of pizza toppings they’re salty, they’re intense, and they’re not afraid to make a statement. But for most of us, that statement is “Get off my pizza!”

The problem with anchovies is that they’re not exactly a wallflower when it comes to flavour. They’re intensely salty and have a strong, fishy taste that can overpower pretty much everything else on your pizza. It’s like inviting a heavy metal band to play at a classical music concert sure, some people might appreciate it, but most are going to be left holding their ears (or in this case, their noses).

And let’s not forget the texture. Anchovies tend to almost melt into the cheese, creating these little pockets of intense fishiness that can catch you off guard. It’s like a flavour landmine you never know when you’re going to step on one.

But here’s the thing anchovies aren’t all bad. They’re a key ingredient in many beloved foods. Ever had a Caesar salad? Yep, there are anchovies in that dressing. Enjoyed some Worcestershire sauce? Anchovies again. It seems these little fish are the ninja of the culinary world sneaking into our food when we least expect it.

So why do they get such a bad rap on pizza? It might be because, on a pizza, anchovies aren’t hiding. They’re right there, front and centre, daring you to take a bite. And for most of us, that’s a dare we’re not willing to take.

And that’s exactly what National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is all about. It’s a celebration of everything we love about pizza, without the one thing most of us could do without. It’s like a pizza party where everyone’s invited, except for that one weird uncle who always brings pickled herring to family gatherings.

Making the Most of Your Pizza Day

Now, I know what you’re thinking “How do I celebrate this momentous occasion?” Well, my pizza-loving friend, I’ve got a few ideas for you:

1. Order the works (minus the you-know-what): Call up your favourite pizzeria and ask for everything they’ve got. Just make sure to specify “no anchovies” unless you want a fishy surprise. Go wild with your toppings! Try combinations you’ve never dared before. Pineapple and ham? Sure! Barbecue chicken and red onions? Why not! The only limit is your imagination (and maybe your stomach capacity).
2. Host a pizza-making competition: Gather your mates and see who can create the most outrageous (and delicious) pizza. The only rule? No anchovies allowed. Set up different stations with a variety of crusts, sauces, and toppings. You could even have categories like “Most Creative”, “Best Vegetarian”, or “Most Likely to Give You Heartburn”. Remember, in the world of pizza, there are no losers only people who get to eat delicious pizza.
3. Get experimental: Ever tried a dessert pizza? Or how about a breakfast pizza? Today’s the day to push those pizza boundaries! Nutella and banana pizza? Go for it. Eggs Benedict pizza? Why not! The beauty of pizza is its versatility. It’s like a blank canvas, just waiting for you to create your masterpiece.
4. Pizza crawl: Hit up all the best pizza joints in your area. It’s like a pub crawl, but with less stumbling and more cheese. Create a map of all the pizzerias in your town and make it your mission to try a slice from each one. Just remember to pace yourself you don’t want to hit a pizza wall before you’ve tried them all!
5. Learn the art of pizza tossing: Warning you might end up with more dough on your ceiling than on your plate, but hey, it’s all part of the fun! There are plenty of tutorials online that can teach you the basics. Just make sure you’ve got plenty of flour on hand, and maybe warn your downstairs neighbours first.
6. Pizza and movie marathon: Pick a bunch of movies where pizza plays a starring role. “Mystic Pizza”, “Do the Right Thing”, even “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” all feature our favourite circular food. Order in (or make your own) and enjoy a slice with every scene.
7. Pizza-themed games: Ever heard of Pizza Party? It’s a board game all about making pizzas. Or how about creating your own pizza-themed trivia game? Test your friends’ knowledge of pizza history, toppings, and fun facts.

Remember, the key to celebrating National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is to have fun and eat lots of pizza. It’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it!

Gifts for the Pizza Lover in Your Life

If you’re looking to spread the pizza love, I’ve got some gift ideas that’ll make any pizza enthusiast’s heart melt faster than mozzarella in a wood-fired oven:

• Pizza-making kit: Give them the tools to create their masterpieces at home. Look for kits that include a pizza stone, a pizza cutter, and maybe even some gourmet toppings. It’s like giving the gift of endless pizza possibilities!
• Pizza-themed cookbook: Because sometimes, you need a little inspiration to spice up your pie game. Look for books that cover a variety of styles, from classic Italian to creative modern twists.
• Personalised pizza stone: Nothing says “I love you” like a slab of stone with their name on it. A good pizza stone can make all the difference between a good homemade pizza and a great one. Plus, it’s a gift that’ll last for years (unlike an actual pizza, which lasts about 10 minutes in my house).
• Pizza-themed kitchen utensils: Slice and dice in style with pizza-cutter shaped spatulas and more. There are some really fun and quirky pizza-themed kitchen gadgets out there. How about a pizza wheel that makes motorcycle noises as you cut? Or pizza slice shaped plates?
• Pizza party: Sometimes, the best gift is a belly full of pizza and a heart full of memories. Organise a pizza-making party for your pizza-loving friend. Supply the ingredients and let everyone get creative with their toppings. It’s a gift and a social event all rolled into one!
• Pizza socks: Yes, these exist, and yes, they’re awesome. Nothing says “I’m a pizza enthusiast” quite like wearing pizza-patterned socks.
• Pizza plant herbs: Gift a set of potted herbs commonly used in pizza like basil, oregano, and thyme. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, providing fresh herbs for countless future pizzas.

Remember, the best gift for a pizza lover is one that celebrates their passion for pizza. Whether it’s something they can use to make pizza, something pizza-themed to wear, or just an excuse to eat more pizza, you really can’t go wrong!

The Day After What’s Next?

So, you’ve stuffed yourself silly with every topping under the sun (except anchovies, of course). What now? Well, my friend, the pizza party doesn’t have to end just because the day does. Here are some ways to keep the pizza love alive:

• Start planning for next year: It’s never too early to start dreaming up your next pizza creation. Keep a pizza journal (yes, that’s a thing) to jot down ideas for toppings, crust variations, or entire pizza concepts. By the time next year rolls around, you’ll have a whole catalogue of pizza innovations to try!
• Explore new pizza styles: From Chicago deep dish to Neapolitan thin crust, there’s a whole world of pizza out there waiting to be discovered. Why not make it your mission to try a different style of pizza each month? It’s like a culinary world tour, minus the jet lag.
• Perfect your recipe: Practice makes perfect, and there’s no such thing as too much pizza practice. Experiment with different flours for your crust, try making your sauce from scratch or play around with cheese combinations. Who knows? You might just create the next big thing in pizza!
• Share the love: Teach a friend or family member your pizza-making secrets. Just make sure they’re worthy of such sacred knowledge. Hosting a pizza-making class for your friends can be a fun way to spread the pizza joy and show off your skills.
• Pizza for a Cause: Look into local charities or food banks that accept pizza donations. Many places would be thrilled to receive a hot, fresh pizza to serve to those in need. It’s a great way to share your love of pizza while giving back to your community.
• Start a pizza blog or social media account: If you’re passionate about pizza, why not share your adventures with the world? Document your pizza creations, review local pizzerias, or share your top tips for the perfect homemade pie.

Remember, pizza isn’t just for special occasions. It’s a lifestyle, a passion, a never-ending journey of culinary exploration. So keep that pizza flag flying high, long after National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day has passed!

A Slice of Life

As I sit here, contemplating the beauty of a perfectly crafted pizza (sans anchovies, naturally), I can’t help but think about how this humble dish has become such a big part of our lives. It’s more than just food; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a social lubricant, a late-night saviour.

Pizza brings people together. It’s there for us during late-night study sessions, it’s the star of the show at kids’ birthday parties, and it’s the peace offering when we’ve had a row with our mates. It’s the great equaliser a food that’s loved by paupers and presidents alike.

Think about it when was the last time you met someone who didn’t like pizza? It’s the go-to food for almost any occasion. Moving house? Order a pizza. Celebrating a promotion? Pizza party! Can’t be bothered to cook? Pizza to the rescue! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of the food world versatile, reliable, and always there when you need it.

And let’s not forget the sheer joy of that first bite of a really good pizza. The way the cheese stretches as you pull the slice away, the perfect balance of tangy sauce and crispy crust, the harmony of flavours as the toppings dance across your taste buds. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that never gets old.

Pizza has even managed to bridge cultural divides. Every country seems to have its take on pizza. In Japan, you might find eel or squid on your pizza. In Australia, a pizza isn’t complete without egg. And in Sweden, they’ve got a pizza topped with banana curry. It’s like pizza has become this universal language of deliciousness, transcending borders and bringing a little slice of joy to people all over the world.

But perhaps the most beautiful thing about pizza is its ability to adapt and evolve. From its humble beginnings as a flatbread in ancient Rome to the myriad varieties we see today, pizza has always been changing with the times. Vegan? There’s a pizza for that. Gluten-free? No problem. Low-carb? Cauliflower crust to the rescue! Pizza is like the chameleon of the food world, always ready to change its colours to suit our needs and desires.

And that’s really what National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is all about. It’s a celebration of unity in diversity. We might argue about pineapple (don’t get me started), we might debate the merits of thin crust versus thick, but at the end of the day, we can all agree on one thing pizza is pretty darn amazing.

So, as you celebrate this most delicious of holidays, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a fully loaded-pizza. Marvel at the way the cheese stretches as you pull away a slice. Savour the explosion of flavours as different toppings dance across your taste buds. And most of all, be grateful that you’re not eating anchovies.

Because on National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, we celebrate pizza in all its glory minus those tiny, salty fish. It’s a day to indulge, explore, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfect slice. So go forth, my fellow pizza lovers, and may your crusts be crispy, your toppings plentiful, and your pizzas forever anchovy-free.