Each year, the pizza scene is invigorated with new tastes, and 2023 is no different. At Crust & Hearth Pizzeria, we continuously track the preferences that capture the hearts of pizza aficionados worldwide. We're excited to present this year's list of top pizza toppings stirring excitement.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing gut health has brought fermented vegetables to prominence as an unexpected favorite topping on pizzas in 2023. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions introduce a distinctive, sour zing that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of cheese and savors of sauce. Not only do they deliver probiotics, but these accompaniments also bring a novel textural aspect to classic pizza.
Our very own Fermentation Fiesta pizza boasts a homemade blend of sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, drizzled with regional honey to counteract the sourness. This blend may seem peculiar, but it's rapidly becoming a top-requested pie.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As plant-focused diets become more prevalent, a heightened request for meatless pizza options has been noted. Apart from the usual plant toppings, advances in vegetarian proteins have created alternatives that appeal to staunch carnivores.
Our menu now commonly incorporates crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, marinated tempeh, jackfruit as pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni. These toppings are appealing not only for vegetarians but also for many patrons who opt for them due to their standout tastes and being easier on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Chili aficionados are celebrating! Pizza lovers in 2023 are preferring particular varieties of regional chilies over the standard crushed red pepper. While the popularity of Calabrian chilies persists, this year has also brought into favor the likes of smoky Spanish ñora chilies, spicy Aleppo pepper, Peruvian fruity aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang.
Our International Fire pizza delivers a mixture of four distinct region-specific chilies, each adding its singular taste to slices of the pizza. This hot choice is particularly well-liked by our patrons inclined towards spicy cuisines.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
With the increasing popularity of foraged elements, the farm-to-table concept has extended to include forest-to-pizza. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms, such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which are highlighted during their peak seasons.
In addition to mushrooms, we've been innovative with items like wild spring ramps (leeks), oceanic plants such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips which contribute a distinct aromatic character. These ingredients offer a connection to the environment and flavors that are unachievable through cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Enhancing pizzas with honey, revered for its sweet and savory contrast, has secured its place as a continuous preference. Building upon the former years' demand for spicy honey, 2023 has seen a variety of specialty honeys emerge as a pizza topping right before serving.
Our selection includes truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, mesquite-infused honey, and honey integrated with CBD, which are being introduced in pizzerias nationwide. This final garnish adds a level of intricacy and turns even the simplest pizza into a gourmet experience.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings nearly making our top five but still creating buzz include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over pizzas creating a rich dusting
- Pickled fruits, particularly stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Ancient grains for added texture, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Specialty butters including cultured or mixed herb butters
Whether your preference remains with timeless classics or leans towards novel and daring combinations, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes. At Crust & Hearth Pizzeria, we respect tradition and yet are passionate about culinary innovation, and as such, our menu accommodates the classic Margherita alongside cutting-edge specialized pies.
Have these trending toppings made it to your plate? Or might you have a distinct favorite blend you'd wish to see on our menu? Communicate with us in the comments or your next visit!