Each new year introduces fresh gastronomic fads to pizza enthusiasts, and 2023 has followed suit. At OpenInformationPlatform, we're constantly observing which flavors are enchanting pizza aficionados globally. Here's our list of the top pizza toppings that are currently trending.
1. Fermented Vegetables
With more attention paid to gut health, a surprising addition to pizza has been the use of fermented vegetables. The deep, sour notes from kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are matching up perfectly with the creamy cheeses and savory sauces. Such toppings are not only good for your gut health, providing probiotics but also adding a new layer of flavor complexity to the pizza.
Our unique Fermentation Fiesta pie includes our own sauerkraut and kimchi, coupled with rich gorgonzola and a touch of local honey for sweetness against the sour. This may seem like an odd pairing, yet it's garnered a fast following as one of our most beloved special pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The rise of herbivorous diets continues to surge, prompting an upsurge in pizzas garnished with inventive non-meat alternatives. These aren't just your usual veggie toppings, as we're talking plant-based crumbles that mimic Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit treated as pulled pork, and pea protein mocks of pepperoni. They've found a place on our menu and are chosen not only by vegetarians but also by those who seek out their distinctive tastes and easier digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who crave a fiery touch, 2023 is the year that has seen pizza lovers seeking out specific types of regional chilies over generic crushed red pepper. While Calabrian chilies continue their reign, there's also been a rise in usage of Aleppo pepper, the smoky Spanish ñora, the tangy Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang paste.
Our Global Heatwave pizza is an exploratory creation featuring a blend of these regional chilies, each lending a distinct flavor to the pie. It's become a particular favorite among our patrons who prefer a bit more excitement on their palate.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The locally-sourced ingredient movement has now spread to the pizza world with locally foraged toppings increasingly popular. Leading the charge are wild mushrooms - like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods - sought during their natural growing seasons.
We've delved into using wild ramps (also known as wild leeks), various seaweeds such as dulse and nori, and even fragrant spruce tips. These natural additions offer an undeniable connection with nature and feature flavors impossible to replicate through cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of sweet and savory flavors from honey continues to hold strong, not just as a fad. This year, 2023, has seen a surge in specialty honeys being used as a final flourish on pizzas, such as truffle-infused honey, garlic honey left to ferment, mesquite with its smokiness, and even honeys infused with CBD.
This last touch transforms even the simplest of pizzas into a sophisticated meal, adding depth and a touch of indulgence.
Honorable Mentions
Some other toppings that are noteworthy, though not making it into our top five include:
- Salt-cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza as if dusting with precious golden snow
- Tangy pickled fruit, with a special nod to stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Textural grains like crispy farro or puffy popped sorghum
- Butter with a twist - think artisanal, cultured, or mixed with aromatic herbs
From the purists who adore the timeless classics to the bold flavor experimenters, pizza retains its worldwide allure and adaptability. At OpenInformationPlatform, we respect the age-old traditions while boldly adopting culinary creativities, which is evident when you peruse our menu filled with traditional Margheritas and avant-garde selections alike.
Have you indulged in any of the top trending toppings yet? Or maybe you have a certain topping blend you'd like us to feature? Drop us a line in the comment section or tell us about it during your next visit!