Each year introduces a new wave of gastronomic trends to the pizza universe, and the year 2023 is not an outlier. At OpenStream, we are constantly observing the evolving flavors that grasp the affections of pizza aficionados across the globe. Take a look at our curated list of the top pizza toppings that are currently taking the culinary world by storm.
1. Fermented Veggies
Gut health's prominence has journeyed into pizza kitchens, with fermented veggies emerging as a surprise sensation atop pizzas. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are infusing pizzas with their deep, tangy essences that play well against the creamy backdrop of cheeses and savories. Offering probiotic gains, these toppings also add a novel textural dimension to the customary pizza experience.
Our all-new Exuberance of Ferments pie is adorned with our own crafted sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a sweet drizzle of local honey to offset the sour notes. This unconventional blend has swiftly ascended to become one of our signature, much-sought-after pizzas.
2. Meat Alternatives from Plants
As the plant-powered diet ascends in acceptance, we've marked a notable upsurge in pizzas that showcase inventive meat substitutes. Advancements in meat alternatives mean that classic vegetable toppings now share the spotlight with plant-based adaptations that even true carnivores can appreciate.
On our menu now are such options as plant-based Italian sausage bits, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork marinated to perfection, and pea protein pepperoni. These innovative proteins cater not solely to vegetarians, but also to those seeking distinctive tastes and a less hefty digestive experience.
3. Locally-Sourced Chilies
For those who seek a fiery kick, 2023 has witnessed an uptick in pizza enthusiasts favoring specific local chili varieties over the common red pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies keep their sought-after status, others like Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora chilies, aji amarillo from Peru, and Korean gochujang are now starting to bedeck pizzas.
The International Spice Trek pizza at our establishment brings together a quartet of these distinct chilies, each lending its singular flavor profile to different segments of the pie. It's a peppery odyssey that has found particular favor among our more daring customers.
4. Wild-Harvested Seasonal Additions
Taking the farm-to-table concept further, wild-harvested seasonal ingredients are taking center stage in the pizza domain. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which showcase their full potential during their natural growing seasons.
Additionally, we've dabbled with forest finds such as spring ramps, oceanic greens like dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These elements not only offer diners a taste of the wilderness but also provide unparalleled flavors that cultivation can't match.
5. Varied Specialty Honey
The interplay of sweet and savory brought about by honey has taken root as a mainstay, going beyond the craze for hot honey in prior years. The year 2023 has unfolded an array of specialty honeys finding their way atop pizzas, applied liberally just before service.
We're now seeing artisanal honeys such as truffle honey, honey infused with fermented garlic, a smoky mesquite variety, and more on menus nationwide, bringing a final flourish that transforms even simple pie assortments into culinary masterpieces.
Honorable Mentions
Not quite making our top five but nonetheless causing a stir are the following toppings:
- Preserved egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza like a cascade of golden dust
- Pickled stone fruits, with peaches and plums leading the charge
- Ancient grains sprinkled on top of pizzas for their crunchy texture, such as puffed sorghum or crispy farro
- Butter concoctions that are artisanal, including those with embedded herbs or cultured for extra flavor
Whether you are an adherent of time-honored classics or you are inclined towards bold, innovative concoctions, pizza remains one of the most versatile and universally adored dishes. At OpenStream, we respect traditions while also embracing the new and novel—which is why on our menu you'll encounter both the quintessential Margherita alongside our trailblazing specialty creations.
Have any of these top-trend toppings been on your plate recently? Or is there an innovative combo you'd desire to see us craft? Let us know down in the comments or during your next visit!