Alone, each is a flavor force. Together, they have the power to rule the world. Well, maybe not the world, but certainly the school cafeteria. We’re talking savory and sweet flavors, distinctly different taste experiences that satisfy the palate and generate cravings for more. They’re so distinctive, you might think that they can’t possibly work together effectively—and yet they do.

Consider sweet pineapple topping savory cheese and tomato sauce on pizza. Or don’t think of that if you’re among the haters. Don’t worry, there are plenty of less controversial examples to prove the point: fruit and cheese, maple syrup and bacon, peanut butter and jelly, peaches and pork, mango and chicken, sweet barbecue sauce and smoked meat and even teriyaki sauce (composed of soy sauce + sugar). While savory and sweet have contrasting flavor properties, their very differences are also complementary, each enhancing the characteristics of the other...