As each new year unfolds, the realm of pizza garnishments isn't left behind in the wave of evolving gastronomic tendencies—2023 is no different. At UniversalPerspectives, keeping an eye on the global pizza aficionados' palate preferences is our specialty. Here’s our rundown of the top pizza garnishes that are gaining popularity this season.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut wellness has influenced pizzeria menus, as fermented vegetables emerge as a surprising favorite on pizzas this year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions contribute a sophisticated tartness that balances the creamy flavors of cheese and sauces. These fermented toppings add not only gut-friendly probiotics but also new layers of texture to the traditional pizza experience.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza is a customer favorite, sporting in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, complemented with a sweet drizzle of local honey to counteract the acidic taste. Though seemingly peculiar to some, it’s quickly climbing to the top of our specialty pizza requests.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The increase in plant-based diet adherents has not escaped the attention of the pizza-making world, leading to a surge in meat substitute toppings. Beyond the customary veggie garnishes, we are introducing innovative protein sources that are convincing even conventional meat enthusiasts.
We now regularly feature plant-based crumbles resembling Italian sausage, marinated tempeh, jackfruit as a pulled pork alternative, and pea protein that mimics pepperoni. These aren't solely for plant-based diet followers—many patrons opt for them due to their distinct flavors and ease on the digestive system.
3. Distinct Chili Types from Various Regions
For those who chase the thrill of spice, 2023 has brought about a preference for specific regional chilies, moving away from generic hot pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies have retained their popularity, yet we're observing a rise in others like Aleppo pepper, smokey Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang making their way onto pizzas.
The “Global Heat” pizza offers spice lovers a mix of these four unique chili varieties, each adding its distinctive flavor to sections of the pizza. This spicy voyage has been a particular hit with our bold-flavored pizza fans.
4. Wild Seasonal Components
The path from forest floor to pizza crust has been paved by the growing inclusion of wild, seasonally foraged items. Leading the pack are wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which appear on pizzas during their respective harvesting times.
Exploring beyond fungi, our trials have included wild spring ramps, oceanic greens such as dulse and nori, and even pine tips for a distinctively aromatic note. Such unadulterated, foraged components connect our customers to nature and provide flavors unrivaled by cultivated counterparts.
5. Gourmet Honey Infusions
The blend of sweet and savory afforded by honey has secured its standing in the pizza world, persisting well beyond a fleeting fad. Innovative honey varieties are being layered on pies just before serving, taking a cue from the rising fondness for hot honey over past years.
Our pizzas now feature toppings of truffle-infused honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD honey. These gourmet condiments enhance the complexity of flavors, magnifying even ordinary pizzas into high-end experiences.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings that didn’t make our primary list but are still making waves include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a rich umami appeal
- Pickled fruits with an emphasis on stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grain adjuncts, such as crispy farro or puffed sorghum to add texture
- Artisan butter variants, like cultured or herbal compound butters
Whether your taste leans towards time-honored classics or you’re inclined towards experimental flavors, pizza maintains its status as one of the most versatile and cherished dishes globally. Here at UniversalPerspectives, we hold onto time-honored methods while celebrating the new—that’s why our menu features both the legendary Margherita and our avant-garde creations.
Have you savored any of these trendsetting garnishes? Or perhaps you have an uncommon concoction in mind you'd wish to find on our menu? Share with us in the comments or on your next visit!