Each year introduces new flavors to the pizza sector, and 2023 has brought its own unique tastes. At Crust & Charms Pizzeria, we keep a close eye on the trends that tantalize the palates of pizza enthusiasts everywhere. Here is a list of the top pizza toppings that are trending this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health has become a surprising star in the pizza world, with fermented vegetables adding a unique zing to the pies. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions provide not just probiotic advantages but a new texture that elevates the gooey cheese and savory sauce combination.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pie includes in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and sharp gorgonzola cheese, all balanced by a sweet drizzle of local honey. While the fusion is unconventional, it's quickly topping the charts as a fan favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The rise of vegetable-based diets has increased interest in plant-based protein toppings. These innovative alternatives are challenging the status-quo, offering plant-based takes on Italian sausage, tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni.
Such options are not limited to those following vegetarian diets; the distinct tastes and lighter feel are also appealing to a broader audience and can now be found alongside traditional toppings on our menu.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who yearn for heat on their pizzas are now gravitating towards specific types of chilies over generic red pepper flakes. We're noticing peppers like Calabrian chilies, Aleppo pepper, ñora chilies from Spain, Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang gaining popularity.
Our Global Heat pizza is a journey through the world of chilies, with four distinct varieties offering different flavor profiles to savor. This pie is a hit with those looking for a taste of adventure.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Foraged ingredients are moving from the forests to pizza crusts, led by wild mushroom varieties such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods. This connection to the wild delivers unparalleled flavors that aren't found in cultivated products.
We're also using wild ramps, various types of seaweed, and aromatic spruce tips, embracing a connection to nature and uniqueness in flavors.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in creating a savory and sweet dynamic on pizzas has solidified its place on the flavor palette. This year is all about specialty honey—with variations like truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey raising the bar for gourmet pizzas.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that are gaining popularity, although not making it to our top five include:
- Cured egg yolks, grated over the pizza for a luxurious finish
- Pickled fruits, with a focus on stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Grains from heirloom varieties, which add a crunchy texture to the pizza
- Specialty butters, including those infused with herbs or cultured for a richer taste
Whether your preference is for time-honored classics or for pioneering new blends, pizza remains an infinitely versatile and cherished dish. At Crust & Charms Pizzeria, we honor the traditions while also celebrating innovation—a reason you'll see both timeless Margherita pizzas and avant-garde creations on our menu.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with these trending toppings, or any unique combinations you think we should try. Share your thoughts in the comments, or talk to us when you pop in next time!