Each year introduces fresh trends in the pizza sector, and 2023 is no different. At BrackenMoor, we stay ahead by tracking the toppings that are capturing the hearts of pizza aficionados worldwide. Here is our curated list of top pizza toppings that are dominating this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Emphasis on digestive wellness has spread to pizza kitchens, with fermented veggies emerging as a top choice for pizzas in the current year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring a zesty taste that pairs well with cheeses and sauces. These toppings offer not just probiotics but also add new textures to the classic pizza experience.
Our unique Fermentation Celebration pizza is adorned with our own sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a sweet touch of honey from local farms to soften the sharp flavors. Though it may sound unconventional, it’s quickly become a much-loved specialty at our pizzeria.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The movement towards plant-based diets has led to an increase in pizzas that showcase inventive meat substitutes. Moving beyond typical veggie toppings, the latest advancements in plant-based proteins have presented alternatives that even staunch carnivores can enjoy.
Recipes such as plant-based Italian sausage, savory tempeh, marinated jackfruit mimicking pulled pork, and pea protein variations of pepperoni have found their way onto our menu. These plant proteins are favorites not solely for vegetarians but for many customers who favor their distinctive tastes and their lighter footprint on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those who love a spicy kick are now favoring specific types of regional chilies over the generic red pepper. While Calabrian chilies continue their popularity, exotic varieties such as Aleppo pepper, the smoky ñora chilies from Spain, Peruvian aji amarillo with its fruity notes, and the Korean gochujang sauce have started to grace pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza is a fiery mix of these diverse regional chilies, giving each section of the pizza its distinct spicy flavor profile. It has been particularly sought after by our patrons looking for a bold and fiery dining experience.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The trend for locally-sourced ingredients has evolved into an appreciation for seasonally foraged toppings. Leading this movement are wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods which appear on our pizzas when they are in season.
In addition to mushrooms, we've experimented with wild ramp greens, oceanic greens such as dulse and nori, and spruce tips that offer a unique aroma. These ingredients forage a connection to nature while providing irreplaceable flavors that can't be found in cultivated goods.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The use of honey to create a sweet and savory contrast has become an enduring culinary technique. Expanding on the beloved spicy honey trend, 2023 has unveiled a variety of special honey types being drizzled over pizzas just before they're served.
Exotic honeys like truffle, fermented garlic, mesquite with its smoky essence, and some infused with CBD are appearing on menus nationwide. These final touches introduce a depth of flavor, transforming even the simplest pizza into an exquisite dish.
Honorable Mentions
Some other toppings that nearly made our list but are still notable include:
- Delicately cured egg yolks, grated over the pizza offering a luxurious topping
- Tangy pickled fruits, with stone fruits such as peaches and plums standing out
- Unique grains like crispy farro or popped sorghum adding crunch
- Gourmet butter dollops, including cultured and mixed herb varieties
Whether you are a pizza purist or one to explore new tastes, pizza endures as one of the most versatile and endearing foods. At BrackenMoor, we respect the classics while welcoming new trends—that's the secret behind our menu that features both timeless Margherita and avant-garde creations.
Have any of these innovative toppings piqued your interest? Or maybe you have a signature combination in mind that you’d love for us to feature? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit with us!