As with each year, the realm of pizza experiences evolving tastes, and 2023 is no different. At EverydayReferenceHub, keeping tabs on what's delighting pizza aficionados globally is part of our routine. We present to you our list of this year's most dynamic and sought-after pizza toppings currently on trend.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health has entered the pizza scene, with fermented veggies emerging as an unexpectedly beloved topping choice this year. Such toppings like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are infusing pizzas with rich, tangy flavors, which pair well with the creamy cheese and robust sauce foundations. Besides the probiotic advantages, these toppings bring forth new textural elements to the classic pizza profile.
Our novel Fermentation Fiesta pie showcases in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a sweetening drizzle of local honey to cut through the sourness. Although it seems unconventional, it's swiftly becoming a top pick among our specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-based diets has ignited a corresponding upswing in plant-derived toppings, particularly innovative meat substitutes, which are no longer mere afterthoughts next to standard veggie toppings. We've introduced delectable alternatives like plant-based crumbled Italian sausage, flavored tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork seasoned with marinate, and pea protein pepperoni, now staple items on our menu. These protein choices intrigue not only vegetarians but also those who favor them for their distinct flavors and less hefty digestive impact.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those with a penchant for heat are celebrating, as pizza enthusiasts are opting for distinct regional chili varieties over the common red chili flakes. While Calabrian chilies carry over their popularity from past years, diverse chilies like Aleppo, Spanish smoky ñora, Peruvian fruity aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are gracing pizzas with their presence.
Our International Hotness pizza offers a fusion of four unique regional chilies, each lending its one-of-a-kind flavor to different sections of the pizza, providing a fiery experience favoured by our more adventurous patrons.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The transition from farm-to-table to forage-to-pizza has benefited from an uptick in popularity with regard to seasonal foraged elements. Leading the charge are wild mushrooms, like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which are becoming increasingly present during their harvest seasons.
Additionally, our experiments include seasonal ramps (also known as wild leeks), marine greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for their distinct resiny scent. These ingredients form a connection between diners and nature while delivering tastes that can't be found in commercial farming practices.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The fusion of sweetness and savory has become deeply rooted in the pizza game, propelled by the ongoing popularity of hot honey. In 2023, we're witnessing an emergence of specialty honey types eagerly dripped over pizzas right before they're served.
Varieties such as truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, mesquite honey with a smoky twist, and even honey infused with CBD are finding their way onto pizzerias' menus nationwide. These finishing drizzles add an elevated twist of taste complexity, turning simple pizza selections into gourmet offerings.
Honorable Mentions
Though not cracking our top five, the following toppings deserve recognition for their splash in the pizza topping scene:
- Cured egg yolks, finely shredded over pizza like a flurry of golden powder
- Pickled fruits, with an emphasis on stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain accompaniments, like crunchy farro or puffed sorghum for added texture
- Dabs of artisan butter (especially flavored with culture or mixed with herbs)
Pizza remains one of the most versatile and adored dishes globally, whether you're someone who cherishes the timeless classics or a culinary explorer eager to experience inventive flavor pairings. At EverydayReferenceHub, we celebrate heritage while also embarking on gastronomic creativity—that's why our menu proudly offers both the iconic Margherita and avant-garde, specialty pizzas.
Have any of these innovative toppings caught your palate's attention? Or perhaps there's an unusual topping combination you'd like us to feature? Drop us a comment or share your thoughts on your next visit!