Each year, pizza receives fresh culinary twists, and the year 2023 is no different. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we constantly track the flavors that win over pizza enthusiasts worldwide. Here are the top-rated pizza garnishes that are causing a stir in this year's culinary scene.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Digestive health interests have spilled into pizza shops, with fermented veggies emerging as a popular choice for toppings this year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring complex, zesty flavors that pair well with the creamy cheese and savory sauce. Additionally, these fermented accompaniments come with probiotics and add an intriguing texture to the classic pizza.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza includes in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and blue cheese, drizzled with local honey to counteract the sourness. Initially unexpected, this concoction is swiftly rising to become a fan favorite specialty pie.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The surge in plant-centric diets has led to increased interest in pizzas adorned with inventive meat substitutes. Beyond the usual veggie options, emerging plant-based proteins are arriving on the scene that can fulfill the appetites of even the most zealous meat fans.
We offer plant-based crumbled Italian sausage, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork in a marinade, and a pea protein product mimicking pepperoni. These protein choices are popular not just among vegetarians, but also customers who appreciate their distinctive flavors and the ease they provide on the digestive system.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those fond of spicy flavors are celebrating as 2023 ushers in a preference for specific regional chili types over universal crushed red pepper. Although Calabrian chilies continue to be a favorite, now we see the rise of Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, Peruvian aji amarillo with its fruity presence, and Korean gochujang as pizza toppings.
Our International Heat pizza presents a selection of four distinctive regional chilies, each lending its own flavor profile to the pizza's sectors. It's a fiery journey that appeals particularly to our adventurous clientele.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Local wilderness now delivers directly to pizza kitchens with the newfound popularity of seasonal foraged items. Leading this trend are various wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, each featured during their growth seasons.
We've also incorporated wild ramps, sea greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips to infuse a peculiar aromatic twist. These components not only bring diners closer to nature but also offer unreplicable flavors not found in commercially grown produce.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of sweet and savory tastes brought on by honey has secured its spot beyond a mere fad. Following the rising demand for spicy honey in preceding years, 2023 has welcomed a variety of specialty honeys used as finishing touches on pizzas.
We're now featuring honey infused with truffles, fermented garlic, mesquite for a smoky hint, and options including CBD. These final flourishes lend complexity and promote even simple pizzas to a high-end dining experience.
Honorable Mentions
Some other garnishes that didn't make our top list but are still making an impact are:
- Cured egg yolks finely grated over pizza creating a veil of golden flavor
- Pickled fruits, especially stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grain garnishes, which include crunchy farro or popped sorghum for added texture
- Dollops of artisanal butter, especially those that are cultured or mixed with herbal compounds
No matter if you're someone who cherishes classic flavors or a culinary explorer eager to experience new tastes, pizza endures as one of the most versatile and cherished dishes. At Crust & Craft Pizzeria, we celebrate time-honored recipes while also embracing the new—that’s why our offerings range from the basic Margherita to avant-garde gastronomic pies.
Have any of these trendy garnishes caught your attention? Or do you have a distinctive topping blend you’d like to see us feature? Share with us in the comments section or during your next visit!