Introduction
St. Louis, a city renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, is witnessing a delicious transformation. The demand for plant-based options is soaring, and nowhere is this more evident than in the rise of delectable vegan pizza. Gone are the days when vegans had limited choices; St. Louis now boasts a growing number of pizzerias offering creative, flavorful, and satisfying vegan slices. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about exploring new culinary horizons, St. Louis has a vegan pizza for you. This article will guide you through the best spots to find this plant-based delight, proving that vegan pizza can be just as delicious – if not more so – than its traditional counterpart.
Understanding What Makes a Pizza Truly Vegan
Before diving into the best spots, let’s clarify what makes a pizza vegan. Veganism, at its core, is a lifestyle that excludes all animal products. This means no meat, dairy, eggs, or honey. When it comes to pizza, this translates to specific requirements for each component:
Dough
The dough must be free of any animal-derived ingredients. Traditional pizza dough usually consists of flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, some recipes might include honey or milk powder. A truly vegan pizza dough uses plant-based alternatives or simply sticks to the classic, simple recipe.
Sauce
Fortunately, most tomato-based pizza sauces are naturally vegan. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the ingredients, as some sauces may contain added dairy or honey for sweetness.
Cheese
This is where the real innovation happens. Vegan cheese has come a long way in recent years. You can find several alternatives to traditional dairy cheese:
- Nut-based cheeses: Cashew cheese is a popular option, offering a creamy, rich texture that melts surprisingly well.
- Soy-based cheeses: These cheeses are made from soy protein and are often designed to mimic the flavor and texture of mozzarella or cheddar.
- Coconut-based cheeses: Coconut oil is used to create a cheese alternative.
- Cultured vegan cheeses: Fermented vegan cheeses are also gaining popularity that has a similar taste to dairy cheese
- Nutritional yeast: A deactivated yeast with a cheesy, nutty flavor. It’s often used as a seasoning or to create a cheesy sauce.
Toppings
The possibilities are endless here! A vibrant array of vegetables is the foundation of a great vegan pizza. Think roasted red peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. For those craving a more substantial pizza, plant-based protein alternatives like tempeh bacon, vegan sausage, or marinated tofu can add a satisfying heartiness.
Debunking Myths and Celebrating Flavor
A common misconception is that vegan pizza simply can’t compare to traditional pizza. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The creativity and innovation in the vegan food world have resulted in pizzas that are bursting with flavor and texture. Another myth is that vegan cheese doesn’t melt well. While some older vegan cheeses may have struggled with melting, the current market offers a wide range of options that melt beautifully, creating a gooey, satisfying pizza experience. The key is to experiment and find the brands and styles that you prefer.
The rise of vegan pizza reflects a broader shift in dietary habits and a growing awareness of the impact of our food choices. As more people embrace veganism or simply seek to reduce their consumption of animal products, the demand for delicious, plant-based alternatives continues to grow. St. Louis is responding to this demand with a vibrant and diverse vegan pizza scene.
Exploring the Best Vegan Pizza Havens in St. Louis
Now, let’s embark on a culinary journey to discover the best vegan pizza spots in St. Louis:
Pie Guy Pizza: A Haven for Custom Creations
Located in the heart of The Grove, Pie Guy Pizza is a beloved local spot known for its creative pies and commitment to quality ingredients. While not exclusively vegan, Pie Guy offers a fantastic selection of vegan toppings and is always willing to customize a pizza to meet your dietary needs. The crust is thin and crispy, providing the perfect base for a loaded vegan pizza.
Their vegan options include a wide variety of fresh vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, spinach, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. They also offer plant-based meat alternatives like vegan sausage. What truly sets Pie Guy apart is their willingness to create custom combinations. Don’t be afraid to ask for your favorite toppings and create your dream vegan pizza. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. They typically use Daiya cheese which is one of the best vegan cheeses on the market. Expect to pay around $20 for a large custom-built vegan pizza.
Pizzeria Da Gloria: A Taste of Italy, Vegan Style
Pizzeria Da Gloria, situated in the charming neighborhood of Botanical Heights, brings a taste of authentic Italian pizza to St. Louis. While their menu primarily features traditional pizzas, they are incredibly accommodating to vegan requests. They use high-quality ingredients and are known for their dedication to crafting the perfect pizza crust. They use 00 flour, which is a finely milled flour ideal for a crispy, chewy pizza crust.
While Pizzeria Da Gloria doesn’t have a dedicated vegan pizza on the menu, their staff is knowledgeable and happy to guide you through creating your own. Start with their classic tomato sauce, which is naturally vegan, and then load up on your favorite vegetables. They offer a variety of fresh, seasonal toppings, and are happy to use vegan cheese upon request. Ask about their current vegan cheese options, as they sometimes feature unique and artisanal cheeses. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic date night. The prices for a customized vegan pizza here are on the higher end, around $25-$30, reflecting the quality of the ingredients.
Pirrone’s Pizzeria: Vegan Pizza with a Family Touch
Pirrone’s Pizzeria is a family-owned establishment with multiple locations around St. Louis. Pirrone’s Pizzeria offers a mix of traditional Italian dishes and pizzas, and they’ve embraced the growing demand for vegan options.
While their menu may not scream “vegan,” they have a decent amount of options and are willing to customize pizzas. Start with their standard crust (check to make sure it is made without honey or milk) and ask for no cheese or the substitute. The vegan toppings they have available include fresh mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, artichokes, spinach, black olives, and more.
Crafting Your Own Vegan Pizza Masterpiece at Home
For those who enjoy the satisfaction of creating their own culinary masterpieces, making vegan pizza at home is a fun and rewarding experience. St. Louis offers a variety of options for sourcing the perfect vegan pizza ingredients:
Local Grocery Stores
Major grocery chains like Schnucks, Dierbergs, and Whole Foods Market all carry a range of vegan cheeses, plant-based meats, and other pizza-making essentials.
Farmers Markets
Explore local farmers markets for fresh, seasonal vegetables that will elevate your vegan pizza.
Specialty Shops
Check out local health food stores and specialty shops for unique vegan cheeses and toppings.
Tips for Vegan Pizza Perfection at Home
- Choose the right vegan cheese: Experiment with different brands and styles of vegan cheese to find the ones that you like best. Some melt better than others, and some have a stronger flavor.
- Make your own pizza sauce: A simple homemade pizza sauce can make all the difference. Combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, and a touch of olive oil for a flavorful base.
- Get creative with toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetable combinations and plant-based proteins. Think roasted vegetables, marinated tofu, or tempeh bacon.
- Preheat your oven: A hot oven is essential for a crispy crust. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible.
- Use a pizza stone: A pizza stone will help to distribute heat evenly and create a crispy crust.
A Slice of the Future: St. Louis’s Vegan Pizza Scene
St. Louis is quickly becoming a destination for vegan food lovers, and the city’s vegan pizza scene is a testament to this growing trend. From custom creations to authentic Italian-inspired pies, there’s a vegan pizza in St. Louis to satisfy every craving. So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about exploring new culinary adventures, grab a slice and experience the deliciousness of vegan pizza in St. Louis. Don’t be afraid to try a new place, ask for customizations, and discover your favorite vegan pizza creation. The options are endless, and the flavor is undeniable. St. Louis is ready to show you that vegan pizza is not just a trend, it’s a delicious and sustainable part of the city’s vibrant food scene. Enjoy your slice of heaven!
