As with each new year, the pizza scene has witnessed emerging trends in toppings. At MindfulJourneys, we closely observe what flavors and toppings are captivating those who love pizza worldwide. Below is our compiled list of this year's top trends in pizza toppings.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health awareness continues to infiltrate pizza kitchens, leading to a growing affinity for fermented veggies as toppings. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions have been the standout choices, offering a pleasant zestiness and completing the rich flavors from cheese and tomato base. Besides the digestive benefits, these toppings add an intriguing textural experience to the pizza.
Fermentation Fiesta is our fresh take on pizza, loaded with our very own sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese. We finish it off with a touch of local honey that perfectly balances the sour notes. It may seem like a peculiar mix, yet it has risen to be a top-requested dish.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The emerging trend of plant-based diets hasn't missed the pizza industry, leading to an uptick in pizzas with plant-derived proteins. Instead of the usual veggie array, we're now offering innovative, meatless alternatives geared to entice even the staunchest carnivores.
We’ve introduced toppings like Italian-flavored plant crumbles, zesty tempeh, jackfruit in a pulled pork style, and pepperoni made of pea protein. These aren't solely for those on plant-based diets; many customers opt for them due to their distinctive tastes and easier digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who love a bit of spice on their pizza are exploring a world of chilies, moving beyond the generic crushed red pepper. Calabrian chilies continue being a favorite, alongside less common varieties like Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora, the fruitiness of Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang paste that have all invaded the pizza space.
Our Global Heat pizza invites you on a spicy journey with a blend of these diverse chilies, with each slice offering a different aromatic kick. It's a hit with diners seeking an adventurous flavor experience.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The forage-to-table wave has extended into pizza topping choices, featured by the sought-after wild mushrooms. Chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods shine during their respective seasons.
We're also exploring flavors like wild ramps, marine greens such as dulse and nori, and even the unique essence of spruce tips. These foraged choices give a connection to the environment while presenting taste profiles not found in farmed produce.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of honey's sweetness with savory elements on pizza has become a staple trend. 2023 has witnessed an increase in unique honey types being drizzled over pizzas. Truffle honey, garlic-infused honey, smokey mesquite honey, and a variation with CBD have all made their way onto menus nationwide, adding an extra layer of gourmet sophistication to the pies.
Honorable Mentions
Some other noteworthy toppings almost making our list that are still finding their way onto pizza pies include:
- Grated cured egg yolks, adding a luxuriously rich topping
- Pickled fruits, with a notable mention of peaches and plums
- Ancient grains adding crunch, think crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Dabs of artisanal butter, particular varieties like cultured or herbed butters
Whether you stick with timeless classics or you enjoy venturing into new taste territories, pizza's versatility makes it an eternal favorite. At MindfulJourneys, we pay tribute to time-honored traditions yet also embrace the new, ensuring our menu features both the classic Margherita and the avant-garde.
Have you indulged in these current topping trends, or do you have an exceptional pairing you'd like us to introduce? Share your ideas in the comment section, or mention them on your next visit!