Each new year ushers in fresh foodie trends within the pizza universe, and 2023 is no different. At TheCommonThread, we're keeping an eye on the flavors that are captivating pizza aficionados worldwide. Here is our list of this year's most trendy and sought-after pizza toppings.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Fermented vegetables have become an unexpected favorite topping on pizzas due to a growing interest in digestive health. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are infusing pizzas with their layered sour tastes that marry well with the creamy cheese and tomato sauce. Providing probiotic perks, these fermented add-ons are also offering new textures on classic pizzas.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza we offer, topped with our own sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a hint of local honey for sweetness, may sound out of the ordinary but is quickly gaining popularity amongst our specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As the trend of plant-based diets continues to soar, we're observing a surge in pizza orders adorned with innovative non-meat alternatives. Beyond your usual vegetable toppings, new plant-based protein options are being devoured even by staunch carnivores.
We're now featuring plant-derived toppings like crumbled Italian sausage from plants, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit treated as pulled pork, and pea protein mimicking pepperoni. These toppings are a hit not only with vegetarians but also with customers looking to explore distinct tastes and a more digestible meal option.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who love a bit of spice, 2023 has welcomed a preference for specific regional chilies, moving away from the usual crushed red pepper. Calabrian chilies are still holding strong, alongside newcomers like the Middle Eastern Aleppo pepper, smoky ñora chilies from Spain, fruity aji amarillo from Peru, and Korean gochujang.
Our “Global Heat” pizza incorporates a selection of these diverse regional chilies, each lending its particular heat signature to sections of the pizza. This chance to take a journey through spice has proven particularly popular among our more daring guests.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
With more people seeking connectivity with nature, the concept of “forest-to-pizza” has taken off, with a particular emphasis on foraged seasonal ingredients. Leading the way in this trend are wild mushrooms, including chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, showing up on pizzas during their natural harvesting seasons.
Additionally, we've been integrating spring ramps (wild leeks), oceanic greens like dulse and nori, as well as spruce tips for a distinctive aromatic twist. These foraged gems provide a connection with nature and offer unmatched flavors that aren't available in commercial farming.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Drizzling honey on pizza for a sweet and savory mix is not a new idea but has become firmly rooted in the pizza culture. This year has seen an explosion in the use of specialized honey varieties added to pizzas right before they're served.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, sweet mesquite honey, and even varieties infused with CBD are being introduced in pizzerias nationwide. These unique drizzles add complexity and can transform even the most simple pizza into a gourmet experience.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that didn't quite make the top five, but deserve mention, include:
- Cured egg yolks, thinly shaved over the pizza like a dusting of gold
- Pickled fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grain toppings, like crunchy farro or puffed sorghum for added texture
- Dashes of artisanal butter, with options like cultured or mixed herb butters
Whether you're a lover of classic pizza styles or someone who thrives on trying new and daring flavor combinations, pizza remains an infinitely versatile and universally adored dish. At TheCommonThread, we respect the classics while also eagerly experimenting with what's new — that's why on our menu you can find the timeless Margherita alongside our inventive and contemporary pizza creations.
Have you had a chance to taste any of these trending toppings yet? Or do you have an inspired topping combo you'd want to see us try out? Drop us your thoughts in the comments or share with us during your next visit!