As pizza continues to evolve, each year introduces new favored flavors in the realm of pizza toppings. At PineValleyReach, we stay ahead of the curve by tracking the globally trending tastes that pizza aficionados can't get enough of. This year is no different, and we're excited to share the top pizza toppings that are currently enjoying the spotlight.
1. Fermented Vegetables
The trend of promoting gut health has expanded into the pizza industry, with fermented veggies becoming an unexpected top choice for pizza toppings. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are delivering a zesty, complex taste that pairs wonderfully with the heartiness of cheese and sauce. Not only do they offer beneficial probiotics, but these toppings also bring new layers of texture to the classic pizza experience.
Our Fermentation Fest pizza comes loaded with our own sauerkraut and kimchi, along with gorgonzola cheese, all perfectly counterbalanced with a sweet local honey drizzle. While it may seem unconventional, it's quickly turning into a sought-after specialty pie.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
With the continued surge in plant-based diets, there's been an increased appetite for pizzas topped with innovative meat substitutes. Going beyond ordinary vegetable toppings, the emergence of plant-based proteins has introduced choices that even staunch meat fans appreciate.
Options like crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni have become staples on our menu. Not limited to vegetarian customers, these toppings are chosen for their distinctive flavors and the ease they offer for digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who love a bit of spice are celebrating the trend of using distinct regional chilies instead of the standard red pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies have held onto their fame, we're also seeing spices like Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity aji amarillo from Peru, and Korean gochujang spread throughout pizzas.
Experience our Spice Trek pizza that introduces a quartet of unique regional chilies, adding a special flavor profile to each quarter of the pie. It's proving to be a hit with our customers who prefer a more daring taste journey.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Taking farm-to-table to new realms, the trend of using seasonal foraged ingredients on pizzas is gaining traction. Leading the way are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which feature prominently in their peak seasons.
We're also incorporating other foraged flora like spring ramps, coastal seaweeds including dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for their singular aromatic essence. These natural elements offer a connection to the earth while imparting flavors not found in cultivated produce.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Specialty honeys are taking over as the go-to pizza drizzle for a sweet and savory balance. Building on the rising popularity of spicy honey, the year 2023 has introduced a variety of specialty honeys like truffle-infused, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and other unique infusions that have become prevalent across pizza menus. Adding these artisanal touches to a pizza just before it's served can turn even the simplest pizza into an elevated culinary delight.
Honorable Mentions
A few other toppings that didn't make our top five but deserve recognition are:
- Fine grated cured egg yolks, dusting over pizzas like a delicate golden blanket
- Pickled fruits, with stone fruits such as peaches and apricots being notable
- Ancient grain toppings, like crispy farro or sorghum puffs for added crunch
- Gourmet butter spots, in particular cultured or herb-infused varieties
Regardless of whether you stick to traditional preferences or you're keen to explore bold combinations, pizza remains one of the most versatile and universally cherished dishes. At PineValleyReach, we pay homage to time-honored traditions while also embracing the new, which is why our menu features both the classic Margherita and avant-garde speciality pizzas.
Have you indulged in any of these top-trending toppings yet? Or do you have an exclusive favorite blend you think should make our list? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!