As we progress through each year, the realm of pizza sees fresh trends in taste preferences, and the year 2023 is no different. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, our pulse is always on what entices the palates of pizza aficionados globally. And now, we are excited to present the top trending pizza toppings that are defining this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing the importance of gut health, fermented vegetables have become an unexpected sensation atop pizzas in 2023. Varieties like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring a unique zestiness that pairs marvellously with the creamy cheeses and robust sauces. Not only do these toppings offer the benefits of probiotics, but they also bring a novel textural component to the conventional pizza experience.
Our latest creation, the Fermentation Fiesta pizza, showcases our in-house sauerkraut and kimchi, partnered with gorgonzola cheese, and sprinkled with local honey to counteract the tart flavors. It may be an unconventional mix, but this pizza is now among our most sought-after specialties.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-focused diets has resulted in an increased customer demand for pizzas adorned with innovative meat substitutes. Shifting beyond the usual veggie garnishes, developments in plant-based protein have brought forth varieties that even the most ardent meat enthusiasts appreciate.
Options on our menu now include things like plant-derived Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork marinated to perfection, and pepperoni made from pea protein. These toppings aren't just enjoyed by vegetarians; many of our patrons are choosing these for their distinctive tastes and more agreeable digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, 2023 is the year where pizza lovers are opting for specific regional chili varieties, stepping away from the common crush of red pepper flakes. Though Calabrian chilies hold on to their popularity, there are new additions like the sweet-tasting Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, Peruvian aji amarillo with its fruity notes, and the Korean gochujang paste found embellishing pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza brings together a blend of these distinct regional chilies, giving each slice a different yet fiery flavor profile. This pizza is a favorite especially with our patrons who seek culinary thrills.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Foraging for ingredients has become the new norm, as the farm-to-table approach extends its reach to pizzas, with wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, showing up seasonally.
In addition to mushrooms, wild ramps, seaweed favorites such as dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips have been utilized in our kitchen. These ingredients offer a taste of nature and inject flavors that cultivated counterparts can't provide.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's ability to contrast sweet and savory tastes has become a well-established culinary pairing, particularly on pizzas. This trend has been uplifted by an array of specialty honeys drizzled just before serving, as observed in 2023.
Pizzas are now being enhanced with delicacies like truffle-infused honey, fermented garlic honey, aromatic mesquite honey, and other unique varieties. These exceptional garnishes lend a level of sophistication to even the most simple pizza recipes.
Honorable Mentions
There are also other notable toppings that nearly made our top list but still deserve recognition, including:
- Cured egg yolks finely shaved over the pizza for a rich umami taste
- Stone fruits in pickled form, particularly peaches and plums, for a tangy twist
- Crispy heritage grains such as farro or popped sorghum adding a unique crunch
- Gourmet butter varieties, including those that are cultured or infused with herbs
Pizza continues to reign as one of the most versatile and cherished foods, whether you swear by traditional flavors or are open to experimenting with inventive combinations. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we celebrate both these aspects by offering a range from timeless Margherita to modern, avant-garde selections.
Which of these trending toppings have you enjoyed? Or perhaps there's a particular combo you wish to see on our menu? Share your thoughts below or during your next visit!