As the years turn, so do the pizza topping trends, and 2023 has its own unique flavors to showcase. At UniversalHorizons, we stay ahead of the curve by tracking which toppings pizza aficionados worldwide are currently indulging in. Here's our curated list of the standout pizza toppings that have gained popularity this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Fermented vegetables are gaining popularity in pizzerias, thanks to their beneficial impact on gut health. Toppings such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are providing sophisticated tangy flavors that perfectly balance the creamy taste of cheeses and sauces. These toppings are more than just tasty — they're a healthful addition, bringing a new twist to pizza's texture.
Our innovative Fermentation Celebration pizza offers a blend of homemade sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, all rounded off with a sweet drizzle of local honey to soften the sour notes. This unique combination is quickly turning into a surprising fan favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The rise in plant-forward lifestyles has translated into a growing preference for meat-free pizza options. Beyond ordinary vegetable additions, the revolution in plant-based proteins means even staunch carnivores can find satisfaction.
Options like crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, savory tempeh, marinated jackfruit imitating pulled pork, and pea protein crafted to mimic pepperoni have taken a spot on our menu. These toppings appeal not only to vegetarians but also draw in customers looking for distinct flavors and a lighter meal.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
This year has seen a rise in pizza lovers seeking out specific types of regional chili peppers over the common crushed red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies are still a favorite, yet now we're also seeing a mix of regional specialties like smoky Spanish ñora peppers, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and spicy Korean gochujang emerging on pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza offers an adventurous tasting journey with a medley of four different regional chilies, giving each slice a distinct flavor profile. This hot and savory experience caters to our guests who love to explore new tastes.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The locavore movement has expanded to encompass forest-to-table practices, favoring the inclusion of seasonally foraged ingredients on pizzas. Leading this trend are various wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods that pop up on menus in their prime seasons.
We've also been incorporating wild spring ramps (wild leeks), a variety of sea vegetables like dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These ingredients forge a connection to the wilderness and offer unparalleled flavors that can't be replicated by farm cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The interplay of honey's sweetness with savory ingredients has solidified its presence in the gastronomy scene. Expanding from the recent trend of hot honey, various specialty honey drizzles are now being adorned atop pizzas just before serving in 2023.
Honey varieties such as truffle, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and even CBD-infused honey are making their way onto pizza parlors nationwide. These drizzles enhance the dish's complexity and transform simple pizzas into gourmet experiences.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings that have been noticeable but didn't make it to our top five include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a touch of umami
- Pickled fruits, with a particular nod to stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Heritage grain toppings, like crunchy farro or popped sorghum, adding extra texture
- Dollops of artisan butter, specifically varieties like cultured or herb-infused
Regardless if you're a purist who savors timeless classics or a pioneering spirit eager for novel flavor fusions, pizza remains one of the most versatile and adored dishes worldwide. At UniversalHorizons, we pay homage to time-honored recipes while also embracing the new — our menu boasts both the beloved Margherita and trailblazing specialty pies alike.
Have you experienced any of these current topping trends? Or perhaps you have a distinctive favorite combination you'd believe would be a great addition? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!