As each year unfolds, so do fresh pizza topping fads, and 2023 is no different. At StillSummit, keeping an eye on the flavors that enchant pizza enthusiasts worldwide is our forte. We present to you a list of the top pizza toppings that are the current sensation.
1. Pickled Veggies
As digestive health becomes a focal point in gastronomy, pickled veggies have emerged as an unexpected topping on pizzas. Discerning palates are enjoying the intricate, zesty flair brought by toppings like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions, which strike a balance with the creamy cheese and savory sauces. These toppings not only pack a probiotic punch but also add an innovative texture to the classic pie.
Our unique Sourfest pizza comes topped with our own sauerkraut, kimchi, and rich gorgonzola, crowned with a hint of sweet honey to offset the sourness. It might sound odd at first, but it's racing to the top of our list of specialty pizza requests.
2. Non-meat Proteins
As more people choose a plant-based lifestyle, the demand for pizzas adorned with inventive vegan meat alternatives is climbing. Moving past plain veggie toppings, the advent of non-meat proteins has brought about ingredients that even die-hard carnivores can enjoy.
Items like faux Italian sausage crumbles, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit in a pulled pork style, and pea protein pepperoni now grace our menu. These alternatives are loved not only by vegans but also by those who prefer distinct tastes and a lighter meal.
3. Local Chilies
For those who prefer their pizza with a spicy kick, the year has shown a shift towards specific chilies from around the world instead of common pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies remain a favorite, new entrants include the smoky Spanish ñora, the piquant Aleppo pepper, Peruvian aji amarillo with its fruity undertone, and the savory Korean gochujang sauce.
Pepper Parade is our latest pizza innovation featuring a medley of four distinct chilies offering an original taste in every slice. This fiery delight has gained popularity amongst guests who embrace bold flavors.
4. Wild-Crafted Components
The local sourcing trend has matured into including wild ingredients straight from nature, and pizza is no exception. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms like chanterelle, morel, and hen of the woods, which make seasonal cameos on our menu.
Our foray into wild foods includes spring ramps, oceanic plants such as dulse and nori, and even evergreen spruce tips, providing pizzas with an aromatic distinction. These foraged additions offer an immersive flavor experience and a connection to the wild that cultivated ingredients simply cannot match.
5. Unique Honey Infusions
Honey's juxtaposition of sweet and savory flavors is now a well-entrenched pizza topping trend. The current year has unveiled a variety of specialty honey infusions, drizzled over pizzas right before they reach the table.
Options like luxurious truffle honey, savory fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even honey infused with CBD are surfacing on pizza joint menus, giving a gourmet finish that complements a range of pizza styles.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings that are noteworthy, though not in the top five, include:
- Cured egg yolks, grated over the pizza like a fine yellow powder
- Marinated fruits, with a particular nod to stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Ancient grain garnishes, such as crunchy farro or puffed sorghum for added texture
- Specialty butters, including those cultured with herbs or other flavorings
No matter if you're someone who favors timeless toppings or if you're inclined to indulge in innovative combinations, pizza remains a universally cherished and versatile dish. At StillSummit, we cherish the classics while welcoming new culinary creations, which is why our menu boasts everything from the quintessential Margherita to pioneering pizza masterpieces.
Have these trendy toppings made their way to your plate? Or maybe you have a unique concoction in mind that you'd love to see us serve? Share your thoughts in the comments, or let us know during your next visit!