Pesto Play

Italian-inspired Tucci in New York demonstrates how epazote moves seamlessly into other cuisines. Its Gnocchi with epazote pesto and charcoal oil repositions epazote in a modern Italian context, pairing it with traditional elements while confounding expectations. The epazote pesto gives a mineral, minty-sage backbone that cuts through starch, while charcoal oil heightens contrast and visual drama. This is the kind of global mash-up that resonates today. The epazote here is not ornamental. Instead, it’s fundamental to the dish.

Flavors on the Edge is an ongoing series that explores emerging ingredients poised to become high-impact flavor builders.