We witness new trends in the pizza sphere each year, and 2023 is no different. Here at ClearBrooklane, we keep a close eye on what toppings pizza enthusiasts worldwide are enjoying. Below is the list of this year's most sought-after and innovative pizza toppings.
1. Fermented Vegetables
With a growing interest in digestive health, fermented vegetables are unexpectedly gaining popularity as pizza toppings. They add a rich, tangy layer of flavor that pairs well with the creamy cheeses and sauces, thanks to options like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions. Beyond their probiotic health benefits, these ingredients bring a new textural twist to pizza.
Try our Fermentation Fest pizza, which includes our own sauerkraut, kimchi, and blue cheese, all topped off with local honey to soften the sharp flavors. It might sound like an unconventional mix, but it's fast becoming a top pick among our specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As more people opt for plant-based diets, there's a surge in demand for pizzas adorned with alternative meat options. Our menu now features an array of plant-based protein selections that even die-hard carnivores find satisfying.
We now offer plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni. These alternatives draw interest for their distinct flavors and easier digestibility, not just from vegetarians.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
2023 is the year pizza lovers are trading generic red pepper flakes for distinct regional chili types. While Calabrian chilies continue to be a hit, there’s a surge in popularity for Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora chilies, Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang.
Our Global Heat pizza incorporates a blend of four different chilies, each providing its unique taste to separate sections of the pizza, catering to those looking for a spicy culinary journey.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The concept of farm-to-table has expanded with the increasing popularity of foraged ingredients on pizzas. Leading the trend are wild mushrooms, such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which each offer distinct tastes during their growing seasons.
In addition to mushrooms, we're shaving wild ramps, integrating sea vegetables like dulse and nori, and adding spruce tips for their distinctive aroma, creating a connection between our pizzas and the natural environment.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
2023 continues to showcase the allure of honey as an ideal pizza topping for that sweet and savory flavor profile. This year, there’s a variety of specialty honey types gracing the tops of pizzas right before they're served.
Our selections include truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smokey mesquite honey, and honey infused with CBD. These honeys finish off the pizzas with a gourmet twist, perfect for the discerning palate.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that also deserve recognition for their rising popularity, even though they didn't make the top five, include:
- Cured egg yolks, generously grated over the pizza for a rich umami flavor
- Pickled fruits, bringing a tangy twist, particularly stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Ancient grains for added texture, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum
- High-quality butter dollops, be it cultured or infused with herbs
Whether you stick to classic flavors or are eager to explore bold innovations, pizza remains one of the most versatile and adored dishes worldwide. At ClearBrooklane, we celebrate long-standing traditions and welcome new flavors, which is why our menu includes both the timeless Margherita and avant-garde options.
Have these newfangled toppings tempted your palate? Or perhaps there's a unique topping combination you'd love to see us incorporate? Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit!