Each year introduces new trends in pizza gastronomy and 2023 is no different. At TimberRidgeHill, we make it our mission to track the flavors that are captivating pizza aficionados worldwide. We present to you our list of the top exciting and favored pizza toppings that have surfaced this year.
1. Pickled Vegetables
Attention to gut wellness has made its way into pizza kitchens, with pickled vegetables emerging as a popular topping choice this year. Varieties like kimchi, canned cucumbers, and marinated onions bring a zesty taste that pairs well with the creamy pizza cheese and sauces. Adding these fermented options not only offers probiotic advantages but also brings new textural experiences to classic pizza profiles.
Our latest creation, the Fermented Fete pizza, showcases our own handcrafted pickled cabbage, spiced napa cabbage, and bleu cheese, topped off with a hint of homegrown sweet honey to soften the zesty flavors. This combination may seem novel, but it has rapidly become a frequently requested item.
2. Vegan-Protein Toppings
The continual rise of plant-based diets has propelled the popularity of pizzas topped with imaginative meat substitute options. Alongside typical veggie toppings, the arrival of novel vegan proteins are appealing to staunch carnivores as well.
Options like meat-free crumbles resembling Italian sausage, flavorful seasoned tempeh, jackfruit disguised as pulled pork, and pea-protein slices akin to pepperoni are now staples on our menu. These toppings appeal not just to vegans, but also to those who prefer their unique tastes and easier digestion.
3. Distinctive Regional Chilies
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, 2023 has seen an upsurge in the use of specific chili types from different regions instead of generic chili flakes. Trends show Calabrian chilies holding their status from previous years, while new additions like the gentle Aleppo pepper, smoky ñora from Spain, fruity aji amarillo found in Peru, and the distinct gochujang from Korea are being added to pizza toppings.
The Worldly Fire pizza is our response to the trend, offering a selection of four diverse regional chilies with each contributing its distinct taste to our pizza. This spicy journey has garnered a following amongst our more intrepid customers.
4. Wild Foraged Additions
What started as a farm-to-table approach has now expanded into the wild-to-pizza concept with the rise of foraged additions based on the season. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and maitake featured during their peak seasons.
In our experimentation, we've included wild ramps, ocean finds like dulse and nori, and also spruce tips which convey a unique aromatic essence. These foraged items not only offer unmatched flavors but also strengthen the connection customers have with nature's offerings.
5. Exotic Honey Drizzles
The interplay of sweetness from honey against savory has made a lasting impression, transcending it from a mere fad. Complementing the previous popularity of hot honey, the year has brought a variety of unique honey infusions to be drizzled on pizzas including flavors like truffle, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and even CBD varieties.
These intricate honeys add both depth and a touch of luxury, transforming even the simplest pizza to something gourmet.
Honorable Mentions
A few other notable toppings that didn't make the top five but are still making waves include:
- Cured egg toppings, thinly grated over the pizza for a rich umami flavor
- Conserved fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain additions, like crunchy farro or popped sorghum for an extra texture
- Gourmet butter dollops, especially cultured or herb-infused varieties
Whether you're a purist who sticks to the tried-and-true or a culinary adventurer eager for new flavors, pizza continues to be a versatile and universally adored dish. At TimberRidgeHill, we revere the classics while also embracing the new—that's why our menu features both the traditional Margherita and innovative specialty pizzas.
Have you indulged in any of these top trending toppings? Or maybe you have a distinctive favorite blend you'd like us to consider? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!