Each year introduces a new wave of pizza topping trends, and 2023 has brought its own distinctive flavors. At GlenTideway, we keep a close watch on the pizza topping trends that are capturing the hearts of pizza connoisseurs worldwide. Below, we present this year's roundup of the standout and most beloved toppings that are making an impact.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Fermented vegetables have emerged as an unexpected favorite on pizza, taking advantage of the ongoing interest in gut health. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are introducing a delicious tanginess that enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. The health benefits of fermentation and the new textures brought by these toppings are changing pizza into an even more enjoyable experience.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza at our establishment stars our in-house sauerkraut and kimchi paired with gorgonzola cheese, and is topped off with a local beekeeper's honey for the perfect sweet and sour balance. It might sound like an unconventional match, but it's gaining popularity rapidly.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The uptick in plant-based eating habits has paved the way for a widespread interest in pizzas adorned with inventive meat substitutes. Plant-based options such as crumbled Italian sausage analogs, tempeh seasoned to perfection, jackfruit prepared as pulled pork, and pepperoni alternatives made with pea protein, are now staples on our menu. These innovative protein sources are appealing not only to vegetarians but also to those who enjoy their distinctive flavors and easier digestibility.
3. Unique Chili Varieties
Those who enjoy a bit of spice with their slice are in for a treat! 2023 has seen pizza aficionados seeking out specific and distinctive chili varieties, moving away from the typical crushed red pepper. Calabrian chilies continue to be sought-after, but we're also witnessing a rise in popularity for Aleppo pepper, the smokiness of Spanish ñora chilies, the tropical zest of Peruvian aji amarillo, and the depth of Korean gochujang on pizzas.
Our International Fire pizza presents a collection of regional chilies, with each one lending its individual burst of flavor to the different sections of the pizza. This fiery experience has proved particularly popular among our more daring customers.
4. Seasonal Wild Ingredients
The trend of foraging for wild ingredients has extended to pizzerias with pizzas featuring seasonal wild-gathered fares. Wild mushrooms, including chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, grace our pizzas during peak foraging seasons.
We're also exploring other foraged items like spring ramps, sea greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips that offer an intriguing fragrance. These foraged finds connect our diners to the wilderness and offer unmatched natural flavors.
5. Exotic Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in creating sweet-savory flavor profiles has become a mainstay. In 2023, there has been an upsurge in the use of exotic types of honey as a final flourish on pizzas. Varieties such as truffle-infused honey, garlic honey that has undergone natural fermentation, mesquite-flavored honey, and even honey infused with CBD are being introduced across various eateries. These special touches bring sophistication and can transform even the most basic pizza into a refined delicacy.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that nearly made our primary list but are worthy of mention include:
- Grated cured egg yolks, adding a touch of umami
- Sweet and tangy pickled fruits, with a focus on stone fruits like peaches and cherries
- Ancient and heritage grains that provide a satisfying crunch, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Bits of artisanal butter, such as those infused with herbs or made from cultured creams
No matter if you're someone who honors classic flavors or an explorer open to modern gustatory adventures, pizza maintains its reputation as one of the most versatile and cherished dishes globally. At GlenTideway, we respect the classics while embracing the new, which is why our offerings range from the timeless Margherita to avant-garde creations.
Have you experienced any of these latest topping trends? Or perhaps you have a unique topping combination in mind that you'd love for us to try? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit to our place!