Each year introduces new flavors in the pizza sector, and 2023 is no different. At OakMarshland, we're keenly observing the flavors that are enchanting the palates of pizza aficionados worldwide. We present a list of the top trending and well-liked pizza toppings that are currently in vogue.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasizing gut health has found its way into the realm of pizza-making, with fermented veggies becoming a top hit on pizzas this year. Flavors like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are adding zesty flavors that pair perfectly with the creamy cheeses and sauces. These toppings offer probiotic advantages as well as bring a new dimension of texture to the conventional pizza.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza with our house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, topped with a drizzle of local honey for sweetness to counteract the tang, may seem peculiar but it's swiftly turned into one of our most sought-after signature pies.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The shift toward plant-based diets has not waned, resulting in increased demande for pizzas topped with inventive substitutes for meat. Beyond classic veggies, advancements in plant-based proteins now offer satisfying alternatives for even the staunchest meat fans.
We feature plant-based toppings such as crumbled Italian sausage made from plants, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit in a 'pulled pork' style, and pea protein 'pepperoni' on our menu. These aren't exclusive to vegetarians—many patrons select them for their distinctive tastes and easier digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who enjoy spiciness are in for a treat! The year 2023 has seen a trend where pizza lovers are opting for specific regional chili varieties over the standard red pepper flakes. Chilies like Calabrian remain popular from past years; however, unique spices like Aleppo pepper, the smokiness of Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang have also started garnishing pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza incorporates a blend of four distinct chilies from different regions, each contributing its flavor profile to separate quadrants of the pie. It's a fiery gastronomic journey that's been a hit with our boldest customers.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
What began with the farm-to-table movement has extended to foraged-to-pizza, as we witness an uptick in the use of freshly foraged seasonal ingredients. Leaders in this trend are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, appearing more frequently during their growth seasons.
We're exploring wild ramps, sea greens like dulse and nori, as well as spruce tips for their unique aromatic essence. These wild ingredients offer a connection to nature and flavors you can't find in cultivated produce.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The combination of sweet and savory that honey brings has become a fixture in the world of pizza. Taking inspiration from the well-received hot honey in past years, 2023 has welcomed an array of specialized honeys used as garnishes.
Options like truffle-infused honey, garlic honey that's been fermented, mesquite with its smoky note, and even honey infused with CBD are showing up in pizzerias nationwide. These exciting drizzles are the fine details that turn ordinary pizzas into gourmet creations.
Honorable Mentions
A few other toppings that didn't make it to our top five but are still gaining attention include:
- Cured egg yolks, delicately grated over the pizza for a luxurious touch
- Pickled orchard fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain toppings for added crunch, like crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Gourmet butter dollops, especially those cultured or mixed with herbs
Whether you stick to classic flavors or are an experimental eater eager to try out novel concoctions, pizza remains one of the most versatile and endeared dishes globally. Here at OakMarshland, we're proud to offer a blend of time-honored traditions and modern innovations, which means our menu includes the simple Margherita alongside avant-garde specialty pizzas.
Have you experienced any of these contemporary toppings? Or perhaps you have your own special mix you'd wish to see on our menu? Drop us a comment or let us know on your next visit!