As we delve into new seasons, the pizza industry sees an influx of fresh culinary preferences, and 2023 is brimming with innovation. At TheFutureIsOpen, we pay close attention to global trends that entice the palates of pizza enthusiasts. We're excited to present a list of this year's top pizza toppings that are making a buzz.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health is now a priority in pizzerias, leading to the rise of fermented vegetables as an unexpected favorite atop pizzas. Ingredients like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions lend complex and tangy notes that enhance the creamy warmth of cheese and tomato base. Besides offering probiotics, these toppings are transforming pizzas with new textures.
Our Fermentation Fête pizza, with our kimchi and sauerkraut mix, along with robust gorgonzola, topped off with a local honey drizzle, offers a contrary blend that has been surprisingly popular.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-based consumption has led to increased demand for innovative meat substitutes on our pizzas. We're not just throwing veggies on top; we're now seeing a vast array of plant-based proteins that even die-hard carnivores can appreciate.
We feature options such as crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit, and pea protein pepperoni. These alternative proteins have garnered popularity for their distinctive taste and appeal to those preferring a meal lighter on the stomach.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who have a penchant for heat, 2023 is the year where lovers of spiciness are favoring particular chili types instead of the common red pepper flakes. Although Calabrian chilies remain sought-after, varieties like Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora, Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are also gracing pizzas with their presence.
We offer the Global Heat pizza, which sports a selection of chilies from different regions on each quarter, culminating in a fiery gastronomic voyage that's been a hit with those looking to experiment.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Forest-to-pizza has become a new trend, building on the farm-to-table concept as seasonal foraged ingredients gain popularity. Wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods are topping pies in line with their natural availability.
We're also utilizing intriguing wild edibles such as spring ramps, seaweeds including dulse and nori, and spruce tips for their unique aromatic essences. These toppings forge a connection between our diners and the wild, bringing flavors you won't find in cultivated supplies.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in offering a contrast to savory elements is now well entrenched in the pizza world. Differentiating from the well-loved hot honey, this year has introduced a variety of specialty honeys as a finishing touch on pizzas.
We are now serving pizzas with drizzles of truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, aromatic mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey. These drizzles add a layer of sophistication and can make a simple pizza seem gourmet.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings almost making it to our top five include:
- Cured egg yolks finely grated over the pizza for a rich umami hit
- Pickled fruits such as peaches and plums offering a sweet tang
- Heritage grains like crunchy farro or popped sorghum adding texture
- Dollops of artisan butter, like those with added herbs or cultured varieties
Whether you stick to the timeless classics or you're open to exploring daring flavor pairings, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes. At TheFutureIsOpen, we pay homage to tradition but are not averse to innovative creations—that's why our menu houses both the ageless Margherita and avant-garde specialties.
Ever experimented with these top trending toppings? Or have a special combo on your mind that you'd love to see on our menu? Drop a comment below or tell us about it on your next visit!