What purpose do customary garnishes, such as finely diced croutons, serve when topping smooth gazpacho?
Answer
Textural contrast and a necessary element of crunch
Gazpacho, particularly when prepared smoothly via blending, results in a uniform texture. Garnishes are utilized specifically to counteract this smoothness by providing contrasting sensory experiences. Ingredients like finely diced croutons, small pieces of raw diced cucumber, or pepper introduce a much-needed element of crunch and bite. This textural variation prevents the dish from feeling monotonous, offering complexity when combined with the chilled, velvety base.
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