With each year comes a wave of new flavors in the pizza realm, and 2023 has brought its own flair to the scene. At StreamLounge, keeping a pulse on what delights pizza aficionados worldwide is our thing. So, we've compiled a list of the top pizza toppings that have taken the culinary world by storm this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
The widespread emphasis on digestive health has found its way onto pizza menus, with an array of fermented veggies emerging as a favorite topping in 2023. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are offering a zesty burst that perfectly balances out the creamy cheeses and sauces. These toppings aren't just flavor enhancers; they come with the added boon of probiotics and infuse a novel textural twist on classic pizza styles.
Our Fermentation Fest pie is a testament to this trend, stacking homemade sauerkraut and kimchi with robust gorgonzola cheese and a sweet drizzle of local honey to even out the acidity. This mash-up of tastes might seem eclectic, but it's swiftly become a fan favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As more consumers lean towards plant-forward diets, we've observed a spike in demand for pizzas adorned with inventive substitutes for meat. Beyond the usual veggie fare, the advent of cutting-edge plant-based proteins has won over avid carnivores as well.
At StreamLounge, our pizza repertoire proudly showcases plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit in a bold 'pulled pork' style, and pea protein crafted into 'pepperoni' slices. These toppings are winning hearts not simply for ethical or health considerations but for their distinct taste profiles and ease on the stomach.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
2023 is a year of celebration for those who favor the fiery side of flavor. Pizza enthusiasts are increasingly favoring specific varieties of regional chilies over the generic pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies are still holding strong as crowd-pleasers, while aleppo spices, the smoky ñora from Spain, the delectably tangy aji amarillo from Peru, and the beloved Korean gochujang are finding their way onto pizza palettes.
Our Around-the-World Heatwave pizza is a showcase of these global chilies, each lending its distinctive taste to different sections of our pies. It's an epicurean journey full of spice, favored by our bold-flavored aficionados.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
From farm direct to your pizza, foraged seasonal ingredients have surged in popularity. Leading this charge are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, each taking their turn to star on the pizza stage during their harvest time.
Our pizzas have also been topped with foraged springtime ramps, sea-harvested greens like dulse and nori, and aromatic spruce tips. These wild elements offer our customers a taste of the untamed, with flavors that can't be replicated by farm-grown counterparts.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's contrasting sweetness is securing its place as a perennial pizza embellishment. Recent popularity has revolved around spicy honey, but 2023 marks the year when an array of artisanal honey makes its mark, gracing pizzas right before they're served.
We've seen throughout the industry the introduction of honeys infused with truffles, aged garlic, smoky mesquite, and even some with CBD. These final drizzles add a layer of sophistication, turning simple pizzas into gourmet experiences.
Honorable Mentions
While not making the top of our list, a few additional toppings are worth noting for their ongoing appeal:
- Grated cured egg yolks sprinkled atop pizzas lend a unique richness to each slice
- Pickled stone fruits, such as peaches and cherries, contribute a sweet and tart bite
- Crunchy heritage grains, like crispy farro or popped sorghum, are becoming a hit for their interesting textures
- Dollops of artisan crafted butter, particularly those infused with herbs or cultured, are adding an indulgent touch
No matter if you're one to stick with timeless favorites or if you're willing to venture into an array of bold new topping combinations, pizza remains a comfort food beloved across the globe. At StreamLounge, we celebrate the classics as much as we embrace the new, which is why from the staple Margherita to our progressive creations, our lineup is designed to please all palates.
Eager to try these top-trending toppings, or have a distinct mix you think we should introduce? Share with us your thoughts in the comments or drop by for a visit!