As each new year unfolds, pizza trends evolve, with 2023 being no different. Here at OpenPantries, we keep an eye on the topping trends captivating pizza aficionados worldwide. Below is our list of this year's top trending pizza toppings that are generating buzz.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Digestive health has become a priority in pizza toppings, as demonstrated by the rising popularity of fermented vegetables. These include Korean kimchi, German sauerkraut, and pickled onions, which add a zesty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy pizza cheeses and sauces. These toppings also introduce beneficial probiotics and create new textural experiences for classic pizzas.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza is topped with our own sauerkraut, spicy kimchi, and a robust gorgonzola cheese, with a sweet local honey drizzle to offset the sour notes. It's an unconventional combination that has quickly turned into one of our top-selling special pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The rise of plant-forward diets has led to increased demand for pizzas adorned with innovative meat substitutes. Moving beyond typical veggies, new developments in plant proteins have introduced choices that appeal to even the most devoted carnivores.
Options like plant-based crumbled Italian sausage, marinated tempeh, jackfruit as a stand-in for pulled pork, and pea protein-based pepperoni can now be found on our menu. These proteins cater not only to vegetarians but also to customers who prefer them for their distinct taste profiles and an easier eating experience.
3. Exotic Chili Peppers
Those with a penchant for spice are celebrating the embrace of distinct chili peppers from various regions over generic pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies continue their dominance, other varieties like the aromatic Aleppo pepper, Spanish smokey ñora chilies, Peruvian fruity aji amarillo, and versatile Korean gochujang paste are landing on top of pizzas.
Our International Spiciness pizza allows you to enjoy a selection of four distinct chili peppers, each lending its distinct taste to a quarter of the pizza. This hot option has become quite popular with our gustatory explorers.
4. Wild, Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The concept of farm-to-table has expanded with the growing enthusiasm for pizzas adorned with wild, seasonal foraged toppings. Leading the way are various wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods that appear when in season.
We're not just stopping at mushrooms; our explorations have included wild spring ramps, maritime greens like dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These ingredients provide a connection to nature and flavors that cannot be reproduced through farming.
5. Artisan Honey Drizzles
The dynamic contrast of honey has become a well-established element. Going beyond the well-known spicy honey, 2023 has seen a variety of special honey types being applied to pizzas. We're talking about honey infused with the essence of truffles, honey laced with fermented garlic, a hint of smoky mesquite honey, and innovative CBD honey.
These final touches add an extra layer of sophistication, turning even the simplest pizza into a gourmet experience.
Honorable Mentions
Some other inventive toppings that are noteworthy but didn't make it to our top list include the following:
- Grated cured egg yolks elegantly dusted over the pizza
- Pickled stone fruit varieties such as peaches and plums
- Toppings with heritage grains, like crispy farro or puffed sorghum, for added crunch
- Touches of artisanal butters, such as cultured or compound butters infused with herbs
No matter if you're someone who sticks with traditional favorites or a risk-taker eager to sample novel flavor pairings, pizza remains one of those universally cherished and versatile dishes. At OpenPantries, we value the timeless classics while also pursuing innovative tastes, which is why our menu includes both age-old Margheritas and boundary-pushing gourmet pizzas.
Have you sampled any of these top trending toppings? Or is there a distinctive flavor combination you think we should feature? Share your thoughts in the comments, or tell us about it when you stop by.