Each new year invites fresh trends in the pizza universe, and 2023 is no different. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, keeping tabs on the flavors that entice pizza aficionados worldwide is part of our commitment. Here are the top pizza toppings that are the talk of the town this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Attention to gut health has found its place in pizza kitchens, with fermented veggies growing wildly popular as toppings. The dynamic sour notes of kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are providing a complex taste that nicely balances out the creamy cheeses and savory sauces. Not only are these fermented options good for the gut, but they also introduce an element of intriguing textures to the classic pizza.
Take for example our Fermentation Fest pizza. It's topped with our own sauerkraut and kimchi, as well as gorgonzola cheese, and just a hint of local honey to counteract the acidity. It may come off as unorthodox, but it's certainly carved out a place as one of our most demanded specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The shift towards plant-based diets continues to gain momentum, which has led to a notable increase in the demand for meat-free pizza options. Moving beyond ordinary veggie toppings, the arrival of innovative meat substitutes has created options appealing to even ardent carnivores.
Crumble made from plant-based Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni are now commonly found on our menu. These protein alternatives raid our clientele not solely for their vegetarian appeal but also due to their distinctive flavors and being gentler on the stomach.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those in pursuit of fiery toppings are welcoming distinct chilies from various regions, as opposed to the usual crushed red pepper. While Calabrian chilies are still sought after, now there's an inclination towards Aleppo peppers, the smoky ñora chilies from Spain, the berry-like Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang.
Our Spice Tour pizza is adorned with a blend of these chilies, each delivering its unique taste to distinct sections of the pizza. It's an invitation to a spicy globetrotting quest that our daring customers can't seem to get enough of.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients has now ventured from farms to forests, heralding the popularity of foraged toppings. Wild mushrooms, such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, are celebrated during their harvest times.
Apart from these fungi, we've been experimenting with wild leeks, ocean-sourced greens like dulse and nori, and spruce tips for an exclusive aromatic twist. These wildcrafted ingredients provide an unparalleled flavor journey that cultivated counterparts simply can't replicate.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in accentuating the savory flavors has become well-established. With the success of spicy honey in recent years, 2023 has seen a surge in unique varieties of honey being used as a final flourish on pizzas.
Truffle infused honey, garlic honey left to ferment, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-enriched honey have found their way into eateries nationwide. These special garnishes contribute a layer of intricacy and elevate even the simplest pizza to a culinary delight.
Honorable Mentions
Additional toppings that didn't make our primary list but are still making an impact include:
- Cured egg yolks, grated finely over the pizza like flakes of yellow snow
- Pickled fruits, with a notable mention of stone fruits like peaches and cherries
- Ancient grains for crunch, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Spoons of artisanal butter, especially those that are cultured or blended with herbs
Regardless if you're someone who sticks to traditional tastes or a gastronome eager to explore unconventional pairings, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes globally. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we respect the roots of pizza-making whilst also looking out for the next waft of innovation—which is why our menu features both the time-honored Margherita and avant-garde creations.
Have any of these new topping trends graced your palate yet, or do you have an unrevealed favorite mix that you believe should find a spot on our menu? Share your thoughts in the comments, or let us know when you drop by for a visit!