As we navigate the ever-evolving culinary preferences in pizza cuisine, 2023 has certainly introduced its fair share of innovation. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we closely observe the global trends charming the palates of pizza aficionados. Here's a list of the top pizza toppings that are currently in vogue.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing gut health has translated into the unexpected success of fermented veggies atop pizza creations. The introduction of kimchi, pickled cucumbers, and sauerkraut offers a myriad of sharp flavors that impeccably complement the typical cheese and tomato base, adding a probiotic punch and varying textures to the mix.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza stars a mixture of in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, blended with gorgonzola, all perfectly balanced with a local honey drizzle. It's an unconventional pairing that's swiftly become a fan favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The ascent of plant-centric diets has led to a surge in alternative meat toppings. Moving past the predictable veggie options, advancements in plant proteins now offer rehearsed carnivores a delightful substitute.
Our menu now features the likes of plant-based crumbled Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, pulled pork marinated jackfruit, and pepperoni made of pea protein. These toppings attract not only vegetarians but also those desiring unique tastes and gentler digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Hot spice lovers unite! This year marks the rise of distinctive chili varieties garnering popularity over the universal red pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies continue to impress, there’s also a growing affection for distinct peppers such as smoky ñora chilies, the fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and spicy Korean gochujang on pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza presents an assortment of these chilies, granting a distinct taste to each quarter of the dish, thrilling our more daring clients.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Foraged seasonal components are elevating pizzas with the forest-to-pizza trend, spearheaded by varieties of wild mushrooms, including chanterelles and hen of the woods, which grace our pies according to their natural availability.
We also incorporate foraged ramps, sea vegetables such as nori and dulse, and aromatic spruce tips. These elements offer unparalleled flavors and a deeper connection to nature that cultivated products can't match.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's contribution to the savory-sweet dynamic on pizzas is evidenced by the array of unique honey types now garnishing pizzas pre-serving.
We have introduced a selection including truffle honey, smoky varietals, and hemp-derived honey concoctions. These enhancers add a flair of sophistication transforming simple pizzas into culinary delights.
Honorable Mentions
Some noteworthy toppings that didn't quite make our main list but are still earning accolades include:
- Shaved cured egg yolks, adding a shower of gold to the pizza
- Preserved fruits - particularly stone fruits like apricots and cherries
- Ancient grain accents for added texture, including crispy spelt or popped sorghum
- Dollops of artisan butter, such as cultured or infused with fine herbs
Pizza, with its timeless appeal, can either cater to those who swear by the classics or entice the palate of the experimental. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we're proud to uphold tradition yet equally excited to explore innovation—reflected in offerings that range from the age-old Margherita to avant-garde creations.
Are there any trendsetting toppings you've had the pleasure of trying, or do you have a particular blend you'd love to see us feature? Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit!