The landscape of pizza is constantly evolving, and the year 2023 is ushering in innovative toppings. At NeutralBay, we're keenly observing the flavors that are captivating pizza aficionados worldwide. Below is our compilation of the top pizza toppings gaining traction this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
The spotlight on digestive wellness has transitioned into the realm of pizza with fermented veggies rising as an unexpected favorite. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are lending their intricate, tangy essence, which pairs well with the creamy qualities of cheese and sauce. Providing probiotic gains, these toppings are also bringing new textural layers to the classic pizza fare.
Featured on our menu is the Fermentation Fête pizza that sports our in-house sauerkraut and kimchi coupled with gorgonzola cheese, all balanced by a sweet drizzle of local honey. This mix may seem unconventional at first, yet it's swiftly turned into a top request amongst our specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The ascent of plant-based diets has resulted in an upsurge in pizza varieties that incorporate inventive meat substitutes. Going beyond common veggies, progress in the development of plant-based proteins has introduced satisfying alternatives for even the most dedicated carnivores.
We now offer plant-derived crumbled Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni as staples on our menu. These proteins cater not just to vegetarians but to many of our customers who love their distinctive tastes and lighter feel.
3. Local Chili Varieties
Those seeking a fiery kick are indulging in specific local chilies over generic pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies continue to hold their popularity, other varieties like smoky Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are now gracing our pizzas.
Our Spicy Globe Trotter pizza presents a selection of four distinct local chilies, imparting unique flavors to each quarter of the pizza. This piquant journey has been a hit with our adventurous patrons.
4. Seasonal Wild Ingredients
A natural extension of the farm-to-table philosophy is now being seen in forest-to-pizza utilization of wild, seasonal ingredients. Wild mushrooms are at the forefront, showcased with varieties like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods during their peak availability.
We're also exploring ingredients like springtime ramps, oceanic greens like dulse and nori, and aromatic spruce tips. These natural contributions offer flavors that cultivated offerings simply cannot match, forging a bond between our customers and the wilderness.
5. Artisan Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in enhancing the sweet and savory experience has transcended trend status. Building on the acclaim of spicy honey, this year has revealed a variety of artisan honey drizzles applied to pizzas just before serving.
Options such as truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite, and even CBD-enriched honey are making cameos on pizza menus, imbuing sophistication and elevating even the most basic pizzas to a gourmet experience.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that are creating buzz but did not make our top five list include:
- Cured egg yolks, delicately grated over the pizza creating a lustrous effect
- Pickled fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grains for texture, like crispy farro or puffed sorghum
- Gourmet butter drops, especially cultured or compound varieties with herbs
No matter if your preference lies with timeless classics or you're enthusiastic about embracing novel tastes, pizza remains an adaptable and adored dish worldwide. At NeutralBay, we pay homage to tradition while stepping forward with innovation—you'll discover time-honored Margherita pizzas paired with avant-garde creations on our menu.
Have you sampled any of these trendy toppings or have an innovative topping combination in mind that you'd love for us to feature? Share with us in the feedback section or on your next visit!