Each year introduces fresh trends in the pizza realm, and 2023 isn't falling behind. At FutureMesh, we're keenly observing the flavors that are captivating the palettes of pizza aficionados worldwide. Below is our list of topping sensations that have made a significant splash this year.
1. Cultured Vegetables
Paying homage to digestive wellness, cultured veggies have taken pizza menus by storm. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and tangy pickled onions present a blend of flavors that add depth to the creamy cheeses and savory sauces. These garnishes aren't just for their probiotic advantages; they also add a novel textured layer to the quintessential pizza experience.
The Cultured Craze pizza spotlights our homemade sauerkraut and kimchi paired with robust gorgonzola, all tied together with a drizzle of local honey to offset the sour notes. Though seemingly disparate, this pairing has swiftly climbed the ranks as a fan-favorite specialty dish.
2. Meat Substitutes Derived from Plants
As the plant-based movement continues to gain momentum, there's been a notable upswing in demand for pizzas adorned with innovative meat substitutes. These range well beyond the array of common veggies, introducing meat alternatives that can impress even the most ardent carnivores.
We're now serving up items like crumbled Italian sausage from plants, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit prepared as pulled pork, and pepperoni fashioned from pea protein. These toppings cater to vegans and non-vegans alike, drawing in customers with their distinctive flavors and lighter feel.
3. Distinctive Regional Chili Peppers
Those after a spicy kick are in for a treat, with the pizza crowd now favoring specific chili varieties from distinct regions over the commonplace red pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies continue to be a favorite, new challengers like Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chili, vibrant Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are now making boldly flavored appearances.
On our World of Spice pizza, diners can explore a quartet of regional chilies, each lending its one-of-a-kind flavor to different sections of the pizza. This option has particularly appealed to our more daring customers.
4. Ingredients Harvested from the Wild
The philosophy of farm-to-table has extended to the pizza scene through a movement embracing wild-harvested, seasonal ingredients. Leading this trend, wild mushroom varieties such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods are becoming commonplace during their peak seasons.
We've also been working with wild spring leeks (ramps), sea greens like dulse and nori, and even the tips of spruce trees to infuse an aromatic twist. These elements not only bring wild flavors to our customers but also forge a connection to the untamed aspects of nature.
5. Exotic Honey Drizzles
The interplay of honey's sweetness against savory ingredients has secured its spot as more than a fleeting fashion. Continuing from the rise of spicy honey, the year 2023 has ushered in a variety of specialty honey that's drizzled atop pizzas just before they're served.
Options such as truffle honey, honey with fermented garlic, smoky mesquite-flavored honey, and others are popping up on menus nationwide. These aren't merely accent touches—they transform simple pizzas into refined culinary delights.
Dishonorable Mentions
Other toppings that have made a notable impact, though they didn't make our main list, include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pie for a luxurious touch
- Pickled fruit choices, particularly stone fruits like peaches and apricots
- Varieties of ancient grains providing crunch, such as crispy farro or puffed sorghum
- Dollops of artisanal butter, including varieties that are cultured or infused with herbs
Whether one's tastes lean towards classic favorites or they're inclined to experiment with novel flavors, pizza remains a versatile and beloved dish globally. At FutureMesh, we respect the classics while delighting in innovative creations, which is why our offerings range from traditional Margherita to avant-garde specialties.
Have these toppings caught your interest? Or perhaps you have an innovative combination in mind for us? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on your next visit!