As each new year unfolds, it ushers in fresh gastronomic directions in the sphere of pizza, and the year 2023 is ripe with innovation. At PotluckLane, we keep a pulse on the flavors enchanting pizza aficionados worldwide. Here is our list of the top five pizza toppings that are currently dominating the scene.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Digestive wellness has found its way onto the pizza scene, with fermented veggies taking the spotlight as an unexpected hit. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring a complex, tangy edge that balances the rich flavors of cheese and sauce. These toppings aren't just tasty; they offer probiotics and add a new textural dimension to a traditional pie.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza at PotluckLane is adorned with our homemade sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, all drizzled with local honey—a perfect counterbalance to the sour notes. It might seem like an unconventional mix, but it's swiftly climbing the charts as a sought-after specialty pizza.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The wave of plant-based diets has not spared the pizza industry, leading to a noticeable uptick in pizzas topped with inventive meat substitutions. Aside from typical veggies, new plant protein variations provide mouth-watering alternatives that even convince staunch carnivores.
Menu items now include plant-based alternatives such as Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni. These aren't reserved for plant-based diners alone, as many patrons opt for them due to their distinct flavors and being lighter on the stomach.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who crave a fiery kick, the year 2023 is a celebration of distinct regional chili varieties over generic red pepper flakes. We continue to see the enduring charm of Calabrian chilies, complemented by the introduction of others like Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang on our pizzas.
Global Heat, a pizza offered by PotluckLane, is a fiery journey with a combo of four different chilies, each quarter boasting its signature flavor profile. This has become a favorite among our patrons who enjoy a bit of spice exploration.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The transition from farm-to-table has progressed to forest-to-pizza with the growing appeal of seasonal foraged ingredients. Leading the trend are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, finding their way onto pizzas in their peak seasons.
We're also featuring spring ramps (wild garlic), sea plants like dulse and nori, and spruce tips adding a distinct aromatic twist. These natural elements offer diners a connection to the wild and offer flavors not found in commercial cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The contrast of sweet and savory brought by honey has secured its place in the pizza landscape. Following the surge of hot honey, 2023 welcomes a variety of specialty honeys drizzled atop pizzas prior to serving.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite, and honey infused with CBD are making their way onto menus nationwide. Each drizzle adds depth and can turn even straightforward pizza recipes into gourmet experiences.
Honorable Mentions
There are a few additional toppings that didn't make our top five but are nonetheless noteworthy, including:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a rich and savory topping
- Pickled stone fruits, like peaches and plums, for a tart twist
- Ancient grain toppings, such as crunchy farro or puffed sorghum, for added texture
- Dollops of artisanal butter, especially varieties cultured or blended with herbs
Whether you cling to the time-honored classics or are ready to dive into novel flavor combinations, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished foods globally. At PotluckLane, we respect tradition while also embracing the avant-garde, which is why our menu features both the timeless Margherita and unconventional specialty creations.
Have you experienced any of these leading toppings? Or do you possess a unique personal favorite that you'd like us to consider for our menu? Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit!