Each year, the pizza industry presents new trends that catch the fancy of pizza aficionados, and the year 2023 is no different. At ThistLedell, keeping a pulse on global preferences for pizza toppings is what we do. Here is our list of the top pizza toppings that are currently in vogue.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing gut wellness has brought fermented vegetables to the forefront of pizza toppings. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are providing pizzas with a burst of tangy flavors that pair well with the creamy cheese and savory sauce. These ingredients not only add a boost of probiotics but also a new twist in texture to the traditional pizza.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza on our menu, topped with our own sauerkraut and kimchi alongside gorgonzola cheese and a drizzle of local honey, is fast becoming a favorite among our unique toppings, balancing the sour notes perfectly.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As plant-based diets gain traction, there's been a noticeable increase in demand for pizzas decked with inventive meat substitutes. Beyond the typical veggie toppings, a range of plant protein innovations now offers alternatives that can impress even the staunchest carnivores.
Vegan Italian sausage bits, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit styled as pulled pork, and pea-based pepperoni have been incorporated into our menu offerings. These toppings appeal not only to vegetarians but also to those looking for unique tastes and a lighter meal experience.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who crave a spicy kick, this year has seen a shift towards particular regional chili variants instead of the generic crushed red pepper. While Calabrian chilies continue their popularity streak, this year has introduced an appreciation for unique chilies like the Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora peppers, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang on pizzas.
Patrons seeking a fiery taste can try our International Heat pizza, which offers a mixture of four distinct regional chilies spread across the pizza, providing a variety of spicy flavors sure to satisfy any thrill-seeker's palate.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The connection between nature and dining has strengthened with the emergence of seasonally foraged toppings. Leaders in this category, like wild mushrooms including chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, make appearances on pizzas during their natural growing seasons.
We're also serving up wild ramps, oceanic greens such as dulse and nori, and even pine sprigs for their distinctive aromatic essence, deepening the connection between the outdoors and our culinary creations.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Enhancing pizzas with honey for a sweet and savory mix has become a staple. Expanding on the trend of spicy honey, 2023 has introduced an array of unique honeys such as truffle, fermented garlic, smoked mesquite, and CBD-enhanced honey as finishing drizzles on pizzas.
Adding these special honeys just before serving is becoming a popular choice that adds an intricate flair, transforming even the simplest pizzas into refined treats.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that are gaining attention, though they didn't make the top five, include:
- Preserved egg yolks, lightly grated over pizzas resembling delicate amber flakes
- Pickled stone fruits, such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain accents like crispy spelt or puffed sorghum for added crunchiness
- Specialty butters, particularly those that are cultured or blended with herbs
Pizza remains as diverse and well-loved as ever, whether you're someone who sticks to the classics or is eager to explore bold, innovative flavors. At ThistLedell, we celebrate time-honored traditions alongside novel tastes, which is why both timeless Margherita and avant-garde options coexist on our menu.
We'd love to hear whether you've sampled any of these trendy toppings or if there's a particular combination you'd like us to feature. Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit!