As each year passes, new trends emerge in the pizza domain, and 2023 is no different. Here at Crust & Culture Pizzeria, we are keen observers of the flavors that entice pizza aficionados worldwide. Below is our list of the top pizza toppings that have gained prominence this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasis on digestive wellness has transitioned into pizza shops, with fermented veggies making an unexpected splash on pizzas this year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are lending a layer of sharp, complex taste that beautifully counters the cheesy and saucy base layers. These toppings aren't just tasty – they introduce beneficial probiotics and add a new dimension of texture to the traditional pie.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza is made with in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and blue cheese, topped off with a drizzle of local honey to sweeten the sour notes. It's a combination that might seem peculiar but has quickly turned into one of our most frequently ordered specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-based diets has led to increased popularity for pizzas adorned with inventive non-meat toppings. Beyond just veggies, advancements in plant-based proteins mean that we can now offer alternatives that even the most dedicated carnivores can appreciate.
Options like plant-based crumbles that mimic Italian sausage, flavored tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork with a marinade, and pea protein pepperoni have become staples on our menu. And these proteins aren't just for vegans or vegetarians; many of our patrons enjoy them for their distinctive tastes and the lighter feeling post-meal.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who crave a bit of heat, the year 2023 has seen a shift in pizza lovers preferring specific types of regional chilies over the usual crushed red pepper. Calabrian chilies have kept their popularity, but now we're also seeing the likes of Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, the fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang making their way onto pizzas.
The Global Heat pizza combines four different chilies from various regions, each bestowing its own taste to a quadrant of the pizza, offering a spicy experience that's very popular among our more daring customers.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The farm-to-table concept has branched out to encompass a forest-to-pizza approach, featuring the trending use of foraged seasonal items. At the forefront are wild mushrooms including chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, depending on their growing season.
In addition to mushrooms, we're incorporating wild ramps, seaweed like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips to impart a unique aromatic touch. These natural ingredients not only offer an extraordinary flavor but also connect customers to the outdoors.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of sweet honey with savory pizza has definitely secured its place beyond just being a fad. Continuing from the recent popularity of hot honey, this year has witnessed a variety of specialty honeys being drizzled on pizzas, including truffle honey, garlic honey that's been fermented, smoky mesquite honey, and honey infused with CBD, right before serving.
These aren't just garnishes; they add a depth of flavor and can transform even simple pizza creations into gourmet experiences.
Honorable Mentions
Some other toppings that narrowly missed making our top five but are nonetheless creating a stir include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza like a shower of golden flakes
- Pickled fruits such as peaches and plums, particularly from stone fruit categories
- Crunchy heritage grains, like crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Dollops of artisan butter (notably cultured or compound butters with herbs)
No matter if you stick to traditional favorites or are open to trying daring new mixes, pizza remains one of the most flexible and universally adored dishes. At Crust & Culture Pizzeria, we revere the classics while also embracing the new – which is why you'll find both the timeless Margherita and imaginative specialty pizzas on our menu.
Interested in any of these trending toppings? Maybe you have an exceptional topping combination in mind that you're eager for us to add? Share in the comments or during your next visit!