As each year unfolds, we witness fresh gastronomic fads in the pizza scene, and 2023 is no different. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we keep a close watch on flavors that pizza aficionados around the world are falling for. Let's delve into this year's top pizza toppings stirring up excitement.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health has found its way onto the pizza, with fermented veggies emerging as the surprise stars. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are providing intricate sour notes that balance the creamy cheese and tomato base. They're not just a source of probiotics; they're also infusing new textural elements into the classic pie.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza is a highlight, blending house ferments like sauerkraut and kimchi with sharp gorgonzola, all offset by a sweet drizzle of local honey. What may seem like an odd mix is gaining rapid favor among our patrons.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
With a surge in plant-based diets, demand for meat-free toppings has climbed. Eschewing basic veggies, the latest plant proteins are convincing even staunch carnivores.
Veggie Italian sausage crumbles, herby tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni are now staples at our establishment. These toppings are chosen not just by vegetarians, but also by those who prefer their nuanced taste and ease on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who fancy a bit of spice on their slices are gravitating towards specific chili varieties from around the world over the typical red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies continue their hot streak, joined by spicy entities like Aleppo pepper, smoky ñora chilies, fruity aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang.
The Spicy Sojourn pizza serves up a selection of these chilies, each quadrant of the pizza showcasing a distinct flavor kick. This pizza is a hit with customers looking to explore their spicy palate.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Farm-to-table has evolved into something wilder with the use of seasonal foraged goods. Leading the charge are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods during their harvest times.
Moving beyond fungi, we've also been incorporating wild leeks, sea greens like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for their exceptional aromatic qualities. These toppings forge a connection to nature while offering unmatched flavors.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of sweet and savory brought on by honey has become more than a fleeting fancy. Specialty honey types such as truffle, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and CBD varieties are now final flourishes on pizzas nationwide, adding depth and an upscale twist to classic pizzas.
Honorable Mentions
Several other toppings nearly made it to our list but are still worth a mention:
- Cured egg yolks finely grated over the top for a rich finish
- Pickled fruits, with a focus on pit fruits like peaches and plums
- Ancient grain toppings, offering crunchy textures with farro or sorghum
- Dollops of artisan butter, including cultured and herbed varieties for added richness
Whether you cling to the tried-and-true or are eager for new taste experiences, pizza remains endlessly adaptable and universally loved. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we respect the classics while pioneering new flavor horizons, providing a menu that satisfies all preferences.
Have these trendsetting toppings made it to your plate? Or perhaps you have an innovative topping idea we should consider? Share your thoughts in the comment section or on your next visit!