Your Guide to a Vegan Pizza at Domino's
For those following a vegan diet, navigating the menu at a major pizza chain like Domino's can be tricky. While many of the toppings are plant-based, the crust is often the main hurdle due to hidden animal-derived ingredients. Knowing which Domino's pizza crust is vegan is the first and most crucial step towards building a satisfying meal.
The Only Reliable Vegan Crust in the U.S.
In the United States, the clear choice for a vegan-friendly base is the Crunchy Thin Crust. This option does not contain whey or honey, making it suitable for a plant-based diet. Its crisp, firm texture also holds up well to a generous helping of vegetable toppings. It's important to remember that this is the only option that can be consistently relied upon. Other crusts, including the Gluten-Free crust, Hand Tossed, and Brooklyn Style, often contain milk or other non-vegan ingredients.
Why Other Crusts Aren't Vegan
Many of Domino's other popular crust options contain dairy products. The Handmade Pan crust, for instance, contains milk. The Gluten-Free crust, while potentially appearing vegan, also contains milk and is not a safe choice. The Hand Tossed and Brooklyn Style crusts have varying ingredient lists and have been known to include dairy or honey. Given the inconsistencies, the Thin Crust remains the safest and most reliable option for vegans in the U.S.
International Variations
It's important to note that vegan options can differ significantly depending on the country. For example, Domino's UK offers multiple vegan-friendly options that are not available in the U.S. This includes a vegan version of their classic and Italian-style crusts, vegan cheese, and plant-based meat toppings. This variation highlights the importance of checking local menus and ingredient lists. Always consult the nutritional or allergen information provided by your specific region's Domino's website to be certain.
Building Your Vegan Pizza: Sauces and Toppings
Once you have your vegan Thin Crust selected, the next step is choosing the rest of your ingredients. Thankfully, Domino's offers several vegan-friendly options to complete your pizza.
Vegan Sauce Options
- Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce: This is the standard, reliable red pizza sauce that is vegan.
- Barbecue Sauce: A tangy, vegan option for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Vegetable Toppings
Domino's has a wide variety of fresh vegetable toppings that are all vegan.
- Black olives
- Green peppers
- Onions
- Mushrooms
- Pineapple
- Jalapeño peppers
- Banana peppers
- Roasted red peppers
- Diced tomatoes
- Spinach
Domino's Crust Comparison (U.S. Menu)
| Crust Type | Is it Vegan? | Key Non-Vegan Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchy Thin Crust | Yes | None | Safest and most reliable option. |
| Hand Tossed | Often no | Whey or honey | Ingredients may vary; requires local confirmation. |
| Handmade Pan | No | Milk | Contains dairy and is not vegan. |
| Gluten Free | No | Milk | Contains dairy and is not vegan. |
| Brooklyn Style | Often no | Whey or honey | Similar to Hand Tossed, requires local verification. |
Conclusion
For vegan diners in the U.S., the Domino's Crunchy Thin Crust is the definitive choice for building a plant-based pizza. By combining this crust with the Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce or Barbecue Sauce and your choice of vegetable toppings, you can create a satisfying meal. While options are more extensive in other countries, always verify local ingredient information. With a little careful customization, a delicious vegan pizza from Domino's is entirely possible.
For more detailed nutritional information and ingredients, it is always best to consult the official Domino's website directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is L-cysteine and is it vegan?
L-cysteine is a dough conditioner used in some pizza doughs. At Domino's, the L-cysteine used is microbial, meaning it is not derived from animal sources.
Can I get vegan cheese at Domino's?
As of now, Domino's does not offer a vegan cheese alternative in the United States. However, some international locations, such as the UK, do offer this option.
Are any other menu items at Domino's vegan in the U.S.?
Yes. Besides the custom thin-crust pizza, you can order the Garden Salad without cheese and croutons. You can also build your own pasta bowl with the Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce and vegetables, or order the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich without cheese.
Is there a risk of cross-contamination?
Yes, there is always a risk of cross-contamination in a kitchen that handles both vegan and non-vegan ingredients. If you have a severe allergy, it is best to be cautious or cook at home.
What about Domino's dipping sauces?
Several dipping sauces are vegan-friendly, including the Garlic Dipping Sauce, Marinara Dipping Sauce (for dipping, not the pizza sauce), and Hot Buffalo Dipping Cup.
Can I order a Hand Tossed crust without dairy?
No, the Hand Tossed crust typically contains whey or honey and is not guaranteed to be dairy-free. The Thin Crust is the only reliable vegan option.
Are Domino's cinnamon breadsticks vegan?
No, based on international ingredient lists, the cinnamon breadsticks often contain milk or butter. It's crucial to check local ingredient information for any potential exceptions.
