Each year unveils new favorites in the pizza realm, and 2023 has its own set of trends. At EchoIngvale, we keenly observe the flavors that resonate with pizza aficionados globally. We present to you the latest and most beloved pizza toppings that are currently in vogue.
1. Pickled Vegetables
Consciousness about gut wellness has spilled over into pizzerias, with pickled vegetables emerging as a hit topping for pizzas this year. Varieties such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and marinated onions are lending a zesty depth to the creamy cheese and sauce blend. These offerings not only have probiotic qualities but also infuse a novel textural element to the classic pizza.
Our Gut-Friendly Fiesta pizza includes in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and blue cheese, balanced with a topping of locally-sourced honey. This unusual mix is rapidly becoming a top request among our distinctive pizzas.
2. Alternative Plant Proteins
As more people opt for plant-based diets, there's been an upsurge in the request for pizzas topped with inventive meat substitutes. Aside from traditional veggie toppings, the advent of alternative plant proteins presents options that even appeal to staunch carnivores.
Options like plant-derived Italian sausage crumbs, herbed tempeh, marinated jackfruit as a 'pulled pork' substitute, and pea protein 'pepperoni' now grace our menu. These toppings appeal not purely to vegetarians – many patrons are drawn to them for their distinct tastes and easier digestibility.
3. Distinctive Regional Peppers
For those who chase the heat, 2023 has shown a shift towards pizzas adorned with specialized regional peppers, moving beyond the usual red pepper flakes. Popular options include fiery Calabrian chilies, along with the smoky Spanish ñora, vibrant Peruvian aji amarillo, and flavorful Korean gochujang.
Our International Spice pizza showcases a selection of four distinctive regional chilies, bringing their own heat to separate sections of the pizza, providing a taste sensation for those in search of a spicy culinary journey.
4. Wild Seasonal Ingredients
The pursuit of fresh, natural ingredients has led to the inclusion of foraged items on pizza. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms, with sought-after varieties like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods appearing during their peak seasons.
We've also been trying ingredients such as wild spring ramps, marine greens including dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These components deliver a connection to nature with flavors unattainable in cultivated foods.
5. Unique Honey Variations
Honey's sweet and savory contrast has become a lasting addition to pizzas. Building upon the former success of spicy honey, the year 2023 has unveiled a variety of unique honey infusions used as a finish on pizzas right before serving.
Diverse honeys such as truffle-infused, fermented garlic, mesquite-smoked, and CBD-enriched have made their way onto pizza parlors across the nation. These gourmet drizzles contribute a sophisticated touch and transform even the simplest pizzas into deluxe creations.
Noteworthy Mentions
Other toppings that didn't quite make the top five but are still gaining attention include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a touch of umami
- Pickled fruits, with a focus on stone fruits like peaches and apricots
- Ancient grains as toppings, such as crunchy farro or puffed sorghum adding texture
- Gourmet butter dollops, from cultured varieties to those blended with herbs
Whether you have a penchant for timeless classics or you're eager to explore audacious new flavor fusions, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes worldwide. At EchoIngvale, we respect traditional recipes while also embracing the new – that's why our menu boasts both the staple Margherita and our innovative signature pizzas.
Have you sampled any of these trendy toppings yet? Or perhaps there's a distinctive pairing you'd love for us to feature? Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit to our establishment!