As the years change, so do the pizza topping trends, and the year 2023 has introduced its set of popular flavors. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we consistently keep an eye on the toppings that are winning over the palates of pizza aficionados worldwide. We've compiled a list of the top innovative and beloved toppings that are currently trending.
1. Fermented Vegetables
The emphasis on digestive wellness has entered the realm of pizza making, with fermented vegetables emerging as a sought-after choice for toppings this year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring a zesty taste that melds well with the creamy cheese and tomato sauce. These fermented options enhance the pizza experience by adding probiotic advantages and novel textures.
One of our newest creations, the Fermentation Fest pizza, is loaded with our in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a honey drizzle for a hint of sweetness to counter the tang. This peculiar combination might raise eyebrows but has fast become a fan favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The shift towards plant-based diets is becoming increasingly evident, with a noticeable surge in plant-based meat substitutes on pizza menus. More than just regular veggies, plant-based protein innovations are now able to please even the most ardent meat aficionados.
Options such as plant-based Italian sausage pieces, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni are now staples at our establishment. These protein choices are popular not only among vegetarians but also among customers seeking novel tastes and a less heavy meal.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who love some spice, the year 2023 has been all about embracing specific varieties of chilies instead of the common crushed red pepper. While Calabrian chilies continue to be a hot favorite, other types such as Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are also claiming the spotlight.
The Global Heat pizza, a new addition to our menu, comes adorned with an assortment of these regional chilies, each quadrant showcasing a distinct flavor, creating a fiery voyage that's a hit amongst our daring customers.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The from-nature-to-table ethos has grown, with a growing interest in the use of wild, foraged ingredients on pizzas. Amongst these, wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods are gaining popularity during their growth seasons.
We've also incorporated other foraged elements like spring ramps (wild leeks), seaside greens including dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These elements offer a connection to nature while delivering flavors not found in commercially grown produce.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The contrasting flavors of honey on savory dishes have become widely accepted, and 2023 has seen an influx in gourmet honey types used as finishing touches on pizzas.
Drizzles of truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey are making their rounds in pizzerias nationwide, adding a nuanced touch that can transform even the simplest pizzas into gourmet creations.
Honorable Mentions
Several other toppings narrowly missed our list but are worth mentioning:
- Cured egg yolks finely grated over pizzas, resembling flakes of gold dust
- Pickled fruits, especially summer stone fruits such as peaches and apricots
- Grains with heritage, like crunchy farro or puffed sorghum for added texture
- Dabs of artisan butter, specifically those with cultured or herbaceous blends
Whether your preference lies in time-honored favorites or edgy, novel flavors, pizza remains an incredibly versatile and cherished dish. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we celebrate the classics while also integrating modern culinary creativity—that's why you'll find the traditional Margherita alongside our avant-garde specialty pies on our menu.
Have you experienced any of these trendy toppings, or do you have an uncommon topping pairing in mind that you'd like to see us introduce? Let us know in the comments section or during your next visit!