Every annum ushers in novel pizza gastronomic trends, and the year 2023 has its share of distinctive flavors. At LevelPlayingField, we keep a keen eye on what enchantments pizza aficionados internationally. Discover our compiled list of current pizza toppings taking the year by storm.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing gut wellness has led to a surprising influx of fermented veggies as pizza toppings this year. Ingredients like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions lend a sophisticated sourness that pairs beautifully with creamy cheese and rich sauces. Besides offering probiotics, these toppings also incorporate novel textural nuances to pizza.
Try our Fermentation Fiesta pie, which includes our homemade sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, with a hint of local honey to counterbalance the zesty flavors. While it may seem unconventional, it's swiftly becoming a sought-after choice.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
Plant-based diets are on the rise, and the demand for meat substitutes on pizzas is surging. Beyond standard veggies, plant-based protein innovations are tempting even staunch carnivores.
Offerings like Italian veggie sausage crumbs, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni are now staples on our menu. These options attract customers not only for their ethical benefits but their distinct flavors and digestibility.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those craving some heat are delighted by the adoption of specialized regional chili varieties over common red pepper flakes on pizzas this year. Amongst popular options are Calabrian chilies, Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora chilies, fiesty Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang.
Our Global Heat pizza is a celebration of four diverse regional chilies, each adding its own flavor profile to the pie's sectors. This spicy journey has won favor with our daring customers.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
From woodland to pizza, the farm-to-table ethic has expanded to include foraged seasonal items. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms, such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, gracing our pizzas when in season.
Additionally, we're introducing wild ramps (wild leeks), various sea vegetables, and even spruce tips for a distinctive aromatic touch. These ingredients create a connection to nature and deliver irreplaceable flavors.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's sweet and savory contrast has become deeply rooted in pizza cuisine. Specialty honey variations like truffle, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and even non-psychoactive infused honeys are enhancing the culinary experience of pizzas.
These gourmet honey drizzles add complexity and transform even simple pizzas into gourmet delights.
Honorable Mentions
Some other garnishes narrowly missing our top list but still causing a stir include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grating over pies like a sprinkle of gold
- Pickled fruits, with a focus on stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Heritage grains like crispy spelt or exploded sorghum adding crunch
- Artisanal butter varieties, especially those infused with herbs
No matter if you are a purist for classic toppings or an enthusiast eager to explore new mixtures, pizza remains an infinitely versatile and cherished dish. At LevelPlayingField, we celebrate established flavors while pioneering new ones—that's why our menu boasts both the timeless Margherita and innovative specialty pizzas.
Have you experienced any of these contemporary toppings yet? Or perhaps you have a personal favorite blend you'd like us to consider? Share your thoughts in the comments or when you drop by!