The pizza scene in 2023 is alive with fresh culinary crazes. At NeutralExchangeZone, we're keenly observing the flavors that captivate the palates of pizza aficionados across the world. Below is our compilation of this year's most thrilling and prevalent pizza toppings.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health's importance has found its way to pizza toppings, with fermented veggies gaining unforeseen popularity. Additions like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions offer a piquant zest that balances out the creamy cheese and tomato base. They don't just supply probiotic perks; these toppings are adding novel textural elements to the classic pizza profile.
Our Fermentation Fest pizza includes in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and blue cheese, with a topping of locally-sourced honey to counteract the sourness. It may seem peculiar at first, but it's swiftly becoming a top pick among our specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in vegetarian diets has caused a spike in demand for pizzas appointed with inventive meat substitutes. Moving past typical veggies, advancements in plant-based protein have given rise to selections that even staunch carnivores enjoy.
We now serve plant-derived Italian sausage bits, spiced tempeh, jackfruit treated as pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni. These proteins attract not just vegetarians but also patrons looking for distinctive flavors and a less heavy meal.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those seeking a bit of heat, 2023 has welcomed an appreciation for specific regional chili peppers rather than the ubiquitous red pepper flake shake. While Calabrian chilies remain a fan favorite, newcomers like the rich Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora peppers, tangy Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are also becoming pizza garnishing staples.
Our International Heat pizza is an arrangement of these unique chilies, each infusing its singular taste into different sections of the pizza, making for a globally-inspired spicy excursion that's a hit with the daring gourmets.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Foraged produce is finding its place in the pizza domain, a spin-off from the farm to table trend. Leading the way are wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods when they are in season.
We're weaving in ingredients like wild ramps (wild leeks), maritime greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a distinctive fragrant twist. These naturally sourced items allow customers to feel a connection with the wild and deliver flavors you won't find in farmed foods.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Adding honey to pizza for a sweet and savory contrast is an enduring practice that's still in vogue. The rise of gourmet honey types in 2023 has only expanded upon the well-loved hot honey trend, with unique honey like truffle-infused, fermented garlic honey, and mesquite-variety adding depth and sophistication to even the simplest of pizzas.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings that nearly made our list and deserve a mention include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a touch of luxury
- Pickled stone fruits, with peaches and plums gaining particular interest
- Ancient grains for texture, such as crunchy farro or popped sorghum
- Gourmet butters applied in small amounts, like those enhanced with cultures or mixed with herbs
No matter if you're someone who stands by the timeless toppings or an explorer of flavor seeking adventurous new pizza experiences, pizza remains one of the most versatile and universally adored dishes. Here at NeutralExchangeZone, we give a nod to classic pizza varieties while also pioneering new combinations—that's why our menu hosts both traditional Margherita and avant-garde offerings.
Which of these trending toppings have you experienced? Or perhaps you've got a unique favorite you'd wish to see on our menu? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!