Using Garlic as a Pizza Topping For PMQ Pizza magazine's March issue, we will be covering garlic as a pizza topping. We are asking the following questions of great pizza chefs: What are the advantages and possible disadvantages of using garlic as a topping? How can or should it be used in pizza topping applications (roasted, smashed, chopped, etc.)? What toppings does it pair well with? Are there any unexpected combinations you have tried or added to the menu at your pizzeria/restaurant? How do you add garlic to pizza so that you offer a great flavor experience? And how can you cross-utilize garlic in other areas of the menu--garlic knots, sauces, etc.? Of course, we'd also love to hear about how you created any garlic pizzas on your menu, how customers respond, why you offer it on the menu/why its flavor combination works so well, advice for using garlic on pizzas/cooking or prep tips, and any other points you'd like to share! We are looking for responses via phone or email interview, and we would love to receive related high res images and/or recipes.

As the founder of WhatAreTheBest.com, I possess extensive expertise in analyzing consumer products, including culinary ingredients like garlic. The strong flavor of garlic on pizza provides immediate aroma and depth, yet it tends to dominate all other flavors. The preparation of raw garlic becomes crucial because it burns rapidly while developing bitter notes. The sweetness and complex flavors of roasted or confit garlic emerge as a superior choice compared to dry scattered garlic. The best way to use lightly smashed or minced garlic involves mixing it with oil or butter instead of adding it as dry particles. The natural flavor combinations of garlic include mozzarella, ricotta, mushrooms, sausage, spinach, and white sauces. The unexpected flavor combinations that work well with garlic include honey, lemon zest, and chili flakes. The best results emerge when you add garlic at both the beginning and end of cooking to create deep flavors without any unpleasantness. The preparation of roasted garlic for various dishes, including pizzas, knots, sauces, and aioli, allows for efficient work while maintaining consistent flavor profiles. Albert Richer, Founder WhatAreTheBest.com