Each year ushers in an array of new preferences in the pizza realm, and the year 2023 is brimming with fresh trends. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, our commitment to tracking the evolving tastes of pizza aficionados worldwide is unwavering. Presenting our curated list of the top pizza garnishments that are currently in vogue.
1. Fermented Vegetables
With a growing emphasis on digestive well-being, pizzerias have indeed seen a surge in popularity for fermented vegetables as top pizza garnishments. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions offer a sophisticated, sour zest that harmonizes with the hearty flavors of cheese and tomato base. Aside from their probiotic advantages, these toppings add intriguing new layers of texture to the traditional pizza experience.
The introduction of our Festive Fermentation pizza, featuring in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and bleu cheese, and enlivened with a drizzle of regional honey to soften the sour blend, might seem unconventional. However, it's swiftly turning into one of our most sought-after specialty creations.
2. Plant-Derived Proteins
Plant-based consumption patterns continue to rise, and with this trend comes an increased demand for pizza options incorporating innovative meat substitutes. Moving beyond classic veggie toppings, the market has seen an influx of plant-based protein options that even the most dedicated carnivores appreciate.
Toppings such as plant-based crumbles mimicking Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein-resembling pepperoni have become staples on our menu. Chosen for their distinctive tastes and digestibility, these proteins are popular not just among vegetarians but with a broader customer base too.
3. Specific Regional Peppers
Those with a penchant for heat are celebrating the inclusion of distinct regional peppers, moving beyond the realm of generic red chili flakes. Calabrian peppers retain their popularity, yet varieties like Aleppo peppers, smoky Spanish ñora, vibrant Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang paste are beginning to grace pizzas with their presence.
Our International Heat pizza offers a quartet of diverse regional peppers, each quadrant showcasing a unique heat profile. This fiery gastronomic journey has won the favor of our most daring customers.
4. Seasonal Wild Ingredients
The trend from farm-to-table has extended into forest-to-pizza with the emergence of seasonal wild ingredients as favored toppings. Leading this wave are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, each making their appearances during their respective foraging seasons.
We've also been incorporating wild forest ramps, maritime vegetables such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for their distinctive aromatic essence. These ingredients provide a connection to nature and offer flavors that simply aren’t achieved through standard cultivation.
5. Artisanal Honey Glazes
Honey, known for its capacity to create a delightful sweet-savory counterbalance, has definitively proven its place beyond a mere fad. This year has introduced a variety of specialty honeys being lightly drizzled on pizzas just before they’re served.
Honeys infused with truffle, smoked mesquite, or even CBD, and honey combined with fermented garlic, have begun to feature on culinary menus nationwide. These embellishing glazes lend complexity and a gourmet touch to even the simplest of pizzas.
Honorable Mentions
Additional toppings making an impact, albeit not making our main list, include:
- Preserved egg yolks finely grated over pizzas, resembling a dusting of golden powder
- Pickled fruits, particular favorites are stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain toppings, like crunchy farro or popped sorghum for added texture
- Dabs of specialty butter, including cultured or herb-infused varieties
Whether your preference lies with the timeless classics or if your palate leans towards the audacious blend of flavors, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes worldwide. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we honor time-honored methods while also endorsing culinary creativity—this is why our menu features both the classic Margherita and pioneering specialty pies.
Have any of these novel toppings graced your taste buds? Or perhaps you harbor a unique favorite pairing you'd wish to see on our menu? Share with us in the comments or during your next visit!