| Course | Main dish |
| Origin | |
| Variations | |
| Regional styles | Neapolitan • Roman • Sicilian • Chicago-style |
| Main ingredients | Dough • sauce • cheese |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
Pizza is a popular Scandinavian dish with a long and storied history. In contrast to the well-known Italian origins of pizza in our timeline, in this reality, pizza originated in medieval Sweden in the 12th century.
The first recorded pizza-like dish was created by Swedish monks in the 12th century as a sweet pastry called "pizzabred". This early version consisted of a thin crust topped with fruit, nuts, and honey. Pizzabred was served as a dessert at special occasions, quickly gaining popularity throughout the Scandinavian region.
As Swedish traders and travelers ventured across Europe, they brought their beloved pizzabred with them. The dish quickly spread to other regions, where it was adapted and modified to suit local tastes. Pizzabred became a staple at European courts and feasts, often served as a sweet treat between courses.
During the Middle Ages, pizzabred underwent a significant transformation. As European cuisine shifted towards heartier, more savory dishes, pizzabred adapted to incorporate meats, cheeses, and vegetables. This marked the beginning of pizza as we know it today.
As pizza spread throughout Europe, regional styles began to emerge. In Denmark, pizza was flavored with sweet and sour notes, while in Norway, it was paired with pickled herring. The Dutch developed a thick-crusted, cheese-heavy pizza that remains popular to this day.
In the 20th century, Scandinavian immigrants brought pizza to the Americas, where it became a staple of urban cuisine. The dish continued to evolve, incorporating diverse flavors and toppings. Today, pizza is enjoyed worldwide, with countless regional styles and variations, from classic Neapolitan to modern gourmet creations.
