As new culinary concepts emerge each year, the pizza sector continuously sees innovative trends, and the year 2023 has brought its own set of flavors to the forefront. At WholeSpoon, our dedication lies in identifying global preferences in pizza tastes. Here is a compiled list of the top pizza toppings that are making a notable impact this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
As gut health catches more attention, it's no surprise that fermented vegetables are now starring on pizza menus worldwide. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions offer a complex burst of tangy flavors that marry well with the traditional cheesy and saucy base of pizzas. They're not just tasty but come with probiotic advantages and add an exciting textural twist.
Featured on our menu is the Fermentation Fiesta pie, layered with our in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and a tangy gorgonzola cheese, all delicately finished with a local honey drizzle for a sweet balance. It's an unconventional combo that's surprisingly in high demand.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-based dietary preferences has given rise to innovative meat substitutes as pizza toppings. Moving past the basic veggies, new plant-based protein variations are now satisfying for all pizza lovers, meat-eaters included.
Our array includes plant-derived Italian sausage bits, herbed tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork marinated to perfection, and pea protein pepperoni. These proteins appeal not only to vegetarians but also to those seeking unique tastes and a lighter meal.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who favor spicy flavors, 2023 is a year to indulge in specific chili types from various regions over the basic red pepper flakes. Along with the continued popularity of Calabrian chilies, chilies like the smoky Spanish ñora, the fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are gaining attention.
Our Global Heat pizza offers a quartet of these distinct regional chili flavors, giving our customers a fiery tasting journey across different slices of the pie.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The push for farm-to-table dining has led to a trend of incorporating foraged finds directly on pizzas. Leading this movement are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods that appear during their respective foraging seasons.
We also bring unique flavors with wild leeks known as ramps, sea vegetation like dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These foraged foods offer untamed flavors while connecting our customers with nature.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey is taking its place as a beloved staple for its sweet and savory profile on pizzas. Beyond the well-liked spicy honey of past years, we're seeing an assortment of specialty honeys like truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and CBD-infused honey elevate simple pizzas to deluxe level right before serving.
Honorable Mentions
There are a few more toppings that nearly made our list and are still making a buzz:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated across the pizza for a luxurious topping
- Pickled fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Crunchy heritage grains like crispy farro or puffed sorghum for added texture
- Dollops of artisan butter, especially ones enhanced with culture or herbs
Whether you root for the classic favorites or are eager for innovative flavor mixtures, pizza remains a widely loved and versatile dish. At WholeSpoon, we respect the classics while also looking to the future—that's why our menu includes both the timeless Margherita and the latest gourmet creations.
Have you experienced any of these new toppings? Or perhaps there's an exceptional combo you'd wish to find on our menu? Drop us your thoughts in the comments or tell us on your next visit!